What could be causing pain that radiates from the anus to the scrotum?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Pain between the anus and scrotum (perineal pain) is often caused by infections such as prostatitis, nerve-related conditions like pudendal neuralgia, or lumbar spine problems that refer pain to the pelvic region. Other possible causes include pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, hemorrhoids, or trauma to the area.

Because these causes vary widely—from easily treatable infections to nerve conditions requiring specialist care—identifying the likely source early can save you time, discomfort, and unnecessary worry. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you quickly narrow down potential causes based on your specific symptoms and guide you toward the right next step, whether that's seeing a urologist, a neurologist, or your primary care provider.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Pain that moves from the anus to the scrotum can be caused by different things. One main reason is an infection in the anal or perineal region. These infections require immediate medical attention for prompt diagnosis and treatment. One other reason could be problems with nerves in the area, like the pudendal nerve. This nerve can become irritated or compressed, leading to pain.

Pudendal Nerve Issues:

The pudendal nerve is important for feeling in the perineal area, which includes the anus and scrotum.
If this nerve is irritated, it can cause pain that spreads from the anus to the scrotum.

Lumbar Spine Problems:

Another cause might be issues with the lumbar spine, such as disc degeneration.
When discs in the lower back wear out, they can press on nerves that cause pain to spread to the perineal area.

To better understand what might be causing your symptoms, try our free AI-powered symptom checker for personalized insights. Always consider reaching out to a doctor if you're experiencing persistent or severe pain.

(References)

Darnis B, Robert R, Labat JJ, Riant T, Gaudin C, Hamel A, & Hamel O. (2008). Perineal pain and inferior cluneal nerves: anatomy and .... Surgical and radiologic anatomy : SRA, 18305887.
Robert R, Labat JJ, Riant T, Louppe JM, & Hamel O. (2009). [The pudendal nerve: clinical and therapeutic .... Neuro-Chirurgie, 19748642.
Liyew WA. (2020). Clinical Presentations of Lumbar Disc Degeneration and .... International journal of rheumatology, 32908535.

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