Performing monthly testicular self-exams is important so that teens can become familiar with their anatomy – the shape and size of their testicles – which will make it easier to identify any lumps or bumps that might need to be checked out by a physician. Three possible problems that commonly affect adolescent males are infections, hernias, and testicular cancer. Though cancer is rare among children and adolescents, testicular cancer is the most common cancer found in males between ages 15 and 35.
How to perform a testicular self-exam?
You should start doing a testicular exam when you enter puberty, and you should do the exam once per month. The exam should be done after you’ve taken a bath or shower when when the scrotum (the skin that covers the testicles) is most relaxed. First, stand in front of a mirror and examine the testicles for any swelling or abnormalities. Next, gently grip the top of the scrotum with your thumb and finger. You should feel the rope-like spermatic cord (the structure that connects the testicle to the rest of your body) between your fingers. Lastly, use your free hand to gently roll the testicle between your thumb and fingers to feel for any bumps. Remember that a lump could be as small as a grain of rice.
What is normal?
It is normal for one testicle to be larger than the other. If one starts to enlarge or change in size, it may be a sign of something being wrong.
A soft, small bulge at the back of the top of the scrotum that may feel tender. This is the epididymitis (a tube that carries sperm)
In most males, the left scrotum hangs lower than the right.
What is not normal?
A new lump or swelling
Pain or discomfort
A change in the size, feeling, or color of the scrotum
A dull ache in the testicle
Remember, not all abnormal findings represent cancer, but should be evaluated by your doctor. Testicular cancer is usually curable, especially when caught early, and other abnormalities that may be found on a testicular self-exam often require treatment to avoid future complications like infertility. Feeling comfortable with and knowledgeable about your body is a sign of responsibility and maturity, so you should never feel embarrassed to ask your health care team about your questions or concerns.
For a cartoon explaining how to perform a testicular exam, see this link:
https://www.miumenshealthfoundation.org/resources-1.
For more information about testicular cancer, see this link: https://www.cancer.gov/types/testicular
Katherine Campbell MS3
University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Campus
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.
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.
Office Phone: 417-882-1600
Fax: 417-720-2682
After Hours Line:
1-314-362-2377
Website Design: VIP Marketing Group