Screening – testicular cancer – self-exam; Testicular cancer – screening – self-exam
Testicular self-exam is an examination of the testicles that you do on yourself.
Testicular self-exams (TSE) can help you check for things like cancer. Although testicular cancer is rare in teenage guys, overall it is the most common cancer in males between the ages of 15 and 35. It’s important to try to do a TSE every month so you can become familiar with the normal size and shape of your testicles, making it easier to tell if something feels different in the future.
Testicular self-exams are important to notice changes in one’s testicles. By doing the monthly testicular self-exams, you should become familiar with your testicles thus making it easier to notice any changes.
Most testicular cancers are found by men themselves or their partners, very few are found by a physician. This is why it is so important to be familiar with what is normal and if you do notice any changes then see a doctor immediately.
How the Test is Performed
The testicles (also called the testes) are the male reproductive organs that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone. They are located in the scrotum under the penis.
You can do this test during or after a shower. This way, the scrotal skin is warm and relaxed. It is best to do the test while standing.
- Gently feel your scrotal sac to locate a testicle.
- Use one hand to stabilize the testicle. Use your fingers and thumb of the other hand to firmly but gently feel the testicle. Feel the entire surface.
- Check the other testicle in the same way.
Why the Test is Performed
A testicular self-exam is done to check for testicular cancer .
Testicles have blood vessels and other structures that can make the exam confusing. If you notice any lumps or changes in a testicle, contact your health care provider right away.
Your provider may recommend that you do a testicular self-exam every month if you have any of the following risk factors:
- Family history of testicular cancer
- Past testicular tumor
- Undescended testicle
However, if a man has no risk factors or symptoms, experts do not know if doing testicular self-exam lowers the chance of dying from this cancer.
Normal Results
Each testicle should feel firm, but not rock hard. One testicle may be lower or slightly larger than the other.
Talk to your provider if you have questions.
What Abnormal Results Mean
If you find a small, hard lump (like a pea), have an enlarged testicle, or notice any other differences that do not seem normal, see your provider right away.
Call your provider if:
- You cannot find one or both testicles. The testicles may not have descended properly in the scrotum.
- There is a soft collection of thin tubes above the testicle. This may be a collection of widened veins ( varicocele ).
- You have pain or swelling in the scrotum. This may be an infection or a fluid-filled sac ( hydrocele ) causing a blockage of blood flow to the area.
Sudden, severe (acute) pain in the scrotum or testicle that lasts for more than a few minutes is an emergency. If you have this type of pain, seek medical attention right away.
A lump in the testicle is often the first sign of testicular cancer. If you find a lump, see a provider right away. Most testicular cancers are very treatable. Keep in mind that some cases of testicular cancer do not show symptoms until they reach an advanced stage.
Risks
There are no risks with this self-exam.
