Testicular Self-Exam
Nov 15, 2024
Testicular Self-Exam
The most common cancer for males between the ages of 15 to 35 is testicular cancer. The vast majority of testicular cancer cases are easily treatable if diagnosed early. Testicular exams are the main way this cancer is diagnosed. Sadly, somewhere between 40-90% of men, depending on the country, do not perform self-exams. Generally, healthcare providers recommend starting testicular self-exams at age 15. They recommend using the following exam techniques at least once a month. A testicular self-exam as recommended by the Cleveland Clinic can be completed by following these simple steps:
- Lift your penis out of the way and visually inspect your scrotum.
- Gently grip the top of your scrotum and locate one testicle.
- Use your fingers to examine the spermatic cord. The spermatic cord connects to the top of your testicle and supplies blood. It may feel like a piece of rope.
- Gently roll your testicle between your fingers. Be sure to examine each side from top to bottom.
- Examine your epididymis at the top-back of your testicle. The epididymis is a soft, squishy tube that carries sperm. It may feel tender or sensitive when you touch it.
- Repeat these steps with your other testicle. It’s uncommon to have testicular cancer in both testicles at the same time. If you’re unsure whether a testicle feels abnormal, you can compare it to the other.
You can find more information about testicular self-exams from the Cleveland Clinic by visiting their website to learn more. Remember, it’s best to have a healthcare provider exam at least once a year, usually during an annual physical. A testicular exam only takes a few minutes and doesn’t require any preparation like shaving the area. Have any questions? Reach out to your doctor for more information.
