How to Perform a Monthly Testicular Self Exam

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By kidgas
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Testicular cancer is the number one cancer killer of young males. It is important to know how to perform a self examination in order to detect cancer early when the cure rate is over 90%.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

A few moments each month

Step 1

Take a warm bath or shower before the examination since this relaxes the scrotum providing for an easier, more detailed exam.
Step 2

Stand before a mirror and examine each testicle with both hands feeling the front and the back of the testicle. Get used to the normal size and shape of your testicles so that you can more readily detect future changes. Don't worry if one testicle is larger than the other as this is often the case.
Step 3

Identify the tube-like structure at the back of the testicle called the epididymis. Again, get used to the typical feel of this structure so that if you detect any changes in future months, you will know it.
Step 4

If you detect any changes, be sure to notify your physician. Cancerous lumps tend to occur on the sides of the testicles or on the front. The examination should not be painful.

Tips & Warnings

It is important to perform the exam on a monthly basis for 2 reasons. First, you want to know what normal is for you. Second, you want to detect changes early when cure rates are higher.
Remember, you should not feel any pain during the exam. If you do, contact your physician.
Don't assume that any change you detect is automatically cancer or that a painful exam will lead to a diagnosis of cancer. There are many conditions of the testicle that can lead to an abnormal or painful examination. Be sure to consult your doctor.

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