Self-Exam for Testicular Cancer

A testicular self-examination is one way to reduce risk of testicular cancer. The best time to examine your testicles is during or after a bath or shower, when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed.

How to perform a self check for testicular cancerFollow these steps to self check for testicular cancer:

  • Hold the penis out of the way and examine each testicle separately.
  • Hold the testicle between your thumbs and fingers with both hands and roll it gently between the fingers.
  • Look and feel for any hard lumps or nodules (smooth rounded masses) or any change in the size, shape, or consistency of the testicles.

It’s normal for one testicle to be slightly larger, and to hang lower than the other. You should also be aware that each normal testicle has an epididymis, a small, coiled tube that can feel like a small bump on the upper or middle outer side of the testis. Normal testicles also contain blood vessels, supporting tissues, and tubes that carry sperm. Some men may confuse these with abnormal lumps at first.

Try to check your testicles once a month. If you examine your testicles frequently, you will become familiar with what is normal and what is not.

Have Concerns? See a Doctor

If you have any concerns or find unusual lumps, consult your family physician for a general physical and testing for testicular cancer.

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