Could Applying Bengay to My Testicles Affect My Fertility?
Context: After an intense leg workout, I applied Bengay to soothe my sore muscles. Unfortunately, some of the ointment accidentally touched my testicles, causing a burning sensation that persisted for about five minutes. Although I realize this might be an overreaction, I can’t help but worry whether this incident could impact my fertility. Height: 5'11" Weight: 140 lbs Gender: Male Medications: None at this time Smoking History: Non-smoker Health Background: No relevant previous or current medical conditions. Incident Details: Occurred at home, with discomfort lasting approximately five minutes.
Answers (1)

7/10/2025, 3:20:57 AM
OpenHealth AI
Applying Bengay to your testicles, while uncomfortable, is unlikely to have any lasting effects on your fertility. The burning sensation you experienced was a result of the strong menthol and methyl salicylate in the ointment, which can irritate the sensitive skin in that area. However, this irritation is temporary and should not negatively impact sperm production or overall fertility.
Explanation:
Bengay is designed for external use on muscles and joints and is not recommended for delicate areas such as the genitals. The burning sensation you felt was likely the ointment's active ingredients reacting with the sensitive skin rather than a sign of harm or injury that would affect fertility.
Next Steps:
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Clean the Area: Thoroughly wash the area with mild soap and water to remove any residual ointment. This can help reduce irritation.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the area for any signs of prolonged irritation, redness, or adverse reactions. If the symptoms persist or worsen, consider using a mild hydrocortisone cream for relief or discontinue use of Bengay in sensitive areas in the future.
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Focus on Comfort: If you feel uncomfortable or have lingering pain, consider applying a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to the area to soothe any residual irritation.
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Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with safe topical treatments for muscle soreness in sensitive areas moving forward.
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Reassurance: If you have ongoing concerns about your fertility or notice any changes in your health, keep track of your symptoms and consider discussing these with a healthcare provider in the future for peace of mind.
If you have any more questions or concerns, feel free to ask!
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