Testicular Self-Examination

What is a testicular self-exam?

A testicular self-exam is a cancer-screening test that men can do themselves. The purpose of the exam is to look for any unusual lumps, swellings, tenderness, or excess fluid in or around the testicles. These are possible signs of cancer. Testicular cancer grows rapidly, but it can be cured when found early.

The testicles are part of the male reproductive organs. They are found in a sac of loose skin, called the scrotum or scrotal sac, which lies directly below the base of the penis.

What is the best time to examine the testicles?

All men should do self-exams once a month, starting when they are in their teens. It is best to do the exam after a shower because the skin of the scrotum, which covers the testicles, is more relaxed.

How do I do a testicular exam?

To perform the exam:

Stand in front of a mirror and look for any signs of swelling.
Support your testicles with one hand and feel each one with your other hand.
Roll each testicle between the thumb and fingers, feeling for any unusual lumps. Lumps may be as small as a grain of rice and are usually quite firm, like hard rubber. (It is normal to feel a soft cordlike structure on the top and back of each testicle. This is the epididymis, which is the tube through which sperm pass during an orgasm.)
Check for areas that feel tender.

When should I call my health care provider?

It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other. If you find a hard mass in either testicle, you should see your health care provider soon. Growths that you notice may not be cancer, but you need to report any changes to your health care provider right away. Remember that testicular cancer is highly curable when caught early.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File MEN4611F.HTM Release 9.0/2006