How to Perform A Testicular Self-Exam

Starting at about age 15, guys should perform a testicular self-exam every month to make sure there are no abnormalities

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A mirror

1. Stand in front of a mirror and do a visual inspection of your scrotum. Check to make sure there is no swelling and make sure there are no visible abnormalities. One testicle may hang lower than the other, this is normal.
2. Rest the bottom of your scrotum in your upturned hand and apply very light pressure. Check for swelling, tenderness, lumps, or anything that doesn't feel normal.
3. Put your index finger and middle finger together and roll one testicle between those two fingers and your thumb, gently but firmly.
   The surface of your testicle should feel smooth. You should be able to feel a soft structure on the top of your scrotum that ropes around the side of your testicle. This is called your epididymis, and is a normal part of your anatomy. Check for any pea-sized lumps, swelling, tenderness, hardening of the testicle, or any other abnormality.
4. Repeat the process on your other testicle.

Tips & Warnings

• The best time to perform a self-exam is after a warm bath or shower, when the skin of the scrotum is loose
• Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer among men aged 15-35 and is also one of the most curable, with every stage having at least a 90% survival rate. Early-stage testicular cancer is virtually 100% curable.
• ALWAYS report any abnormality to your doctor, even if you think it is a tiny abnormality. Only your doctor can make an accurate diagnosis, so always ask your doctor if you're unsure
• There are many harmless conditions which can cause similar symptoms as cancer, but only your doctor can make an accurate diagnosis, so NEVER try to diagnose yourself
• Don't check yourself more often than once a month, since that can actually cause you to miss small, slow-growing tumors