Self Test for Testicular Cancer

Memorize this self test for testicular cancer and take the time to look for warning signs and symptoms. Early detection will grant you access to the best treatment for testicular cancer, affording you the most optimistic results.

You may think it is easy to detect a lump in your testicles, but many men find it difficult to distinguish between normal bumps and lumps and concerning lumps. The best way to protect yourself from testicular cancer is to familiarize yourself with your testes so that you know what is normal and what is new and suspicious.

Take the time to examine your testicles, feeling for the epididymis, a small bump to the upper or outer side of the middle of each testicle. Make note of the blood vessels, tubes and tissues that occur naturally in your testicles. This way, you'll know when something changes, alerting you to the concern of possible cancer.

Once you've established a baseline familiarity with your testicles, you should plan on examining your testes on a monthly basis. Always perform your self test after a bath or shower, when the skin on your scrotum is most likely to be relaxed.

How to Perform a Self Test for Testicular Cancer

1. Visually examine your scrotum and testicles. Move your penis to the side so you can visually examine your testicles. Look for signs of swelling or lumps.
2. Physically examine each testicle. Hold each testicle between your thumb and fingers and carefully roll it, feeling for lumps.
3. Note any inconsistencies or changes. If you think there has been a change in size or consistency, or a change in shape of your testicles, you should make note of the changes. Look for nodules-smooth, round bumps-as well as hard lumps.

See your doctor to discuss any concerning changes, including painless lumps or changes in size of the testes. It's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to detecting cancer. You'll want to get treatment as soon as possible if it does turn out to be cancer.