How to Perform a Self-Exam of the Testicles: A Guide to Early Detection

Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers among young men. The good news is that when detected early, the success rate of treatment is quite high. A testicular self-exam, which takes only a few minutes a month, can play an important role in early diagnosis.

AsProf. Dr. Volkan İzol, I recommend that men, especially those between the ages of 15 and 40, make ita habit to performregulartesticular self-exams. This is because many testicular tumors detected early can be successfully treated before they have spread.

When Should You Perform a Self-Exam of Your Testicles?

Self-examination of the testicles should be performed, preferably once a month, after a warm shower or bath. Since the scrotum is relaxed at this time, it is easier to notice any possible changes.

How Do You Perform a Self-Exam of the Testicles?

The exam is quite simple and takes only a few minutes.

  • Stand in front of a mirror and check to see if there is any visible swelling in your scrotum.
  • Gently hold each testicle in your hand, one at a time.
  • Gently roll it between your thumb and your other fingers to feel its surface.
  • Check for any hardness, a lump that can be felt, or a swelling that is different from normal.

It is normal for one testicle to hang slightly lower than the other. What’s important is noticing a change that wasn’t there before.

When Should You See a Urologist?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see aurologistwithout delay:

  • A hard lump in the testicle
  • Painless swelling
  • Enlargement or change in shape of the testicle
  • A constant feeling of fullness
  • A sensation of heaviness in the scrotum

These symptoms do not always indicate cancer, but they must be evaluated.

Conclusion

Self-examination of the testicles is a habit that is important enough to save lives through early detection, and it is quite easy to perform. AsProf. Dr. Volkan İzol, I recommend that young men, in particular, perform a regular self-examination once a month. If you notice anything suspicious, consulting a urologist without delay will ensure that potential conditions are diagnosed and treated at an early stage.