How to Do Testicular Self Examination

Checking for testicular cancer is as simple as performing a self examination every month.
It is recommended to perform the testicular self exam (TSE) after a warm shower as this is when the structures in the scrotum would be most relaxed.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• One thumb, two fingers, a testicle and the will to do it regularly

1. Place your thumb and forefingers around one testicle and the feel gently over the entire surface. Roll the testicle gently between your fingers and note if the surface is smooth or has any bumps. The normal surface of your testicle should be smooth.

2. As you are feeling all around the testicle, move upwards to the top and feel the epididymis. It shaped like a comma and might even be a little bit tender. It is not unusual for this structure to extend a bit behind the testicle.

3. Keep feeling the epididymis. There is a small tube at the top called the spermatic cord. You should be able to feel the spermatic cord between your thumb and forefinger and it should be soft and movable.

4. Repeat on the other testicle

Tips & Warnings

• Early testicular cancer detection significantly increases survival rates and it only takes 60 seconds, that is precisely twelve minutes per year.