Testes self-examination

testes; testicles; examination; self; cancer; balls; lump; testicular; scrotum;

Contents

• Steps to follow
• What to check for
• Resources
• Further reading

Cancer of the testes (balls) is not common and treatment is usually very successful. It is more common in boys or men who had an undescended testis (ie. the testis had not descended into the scrotum, and needed to be operated on to bring it down). This cancer is usually found by men checking their own testes. Regular checks (each month for example) are recommended, and if you find some change or a lump, go to your doctor straight away.

Steps to follow

1. It is ideal if the self-examination is done after a warm bath or shower. The heat tends to make the testes hang lower so they are easier to feel and find anything different.
2. Stand in front of a mirror and look for any swelling of the skin around the testes.
3. Feel each testicle (ball) with both hands. Both the index and middle fingers should be placed under the testicle while the thumbs are placed on the top.
4. Gently roll the testicle between the thumbs and fingers. It is normal for one testicle to be larger than the other.
5. Find the epididymis (the soft tube-like structure at the back of the testicle that collects and carries the sperm). Do not mistake this for an abnormal lump.

What to check for

• a lump in either testicle
• a testis being larger than it was, or tender to touch
• Pain or tenderness
• a heavy feeling in the scrotum
• an ache in the lower abdomen (groin).

Most lumps are not cancer and most do not need treatment. Your doctor will be able to tell you if your lump is something you should be concerned about, and if any more tests are needed. Remember, if you do find a lump or any thing unusual, contact a doctor as soon as possible.

Resources

• The Second Story Youth Health Service (TSS)
  - Central: 57 Hyde St, Adelaide
  - South: 50a Beach Rd, Christies Beach
  - North: 6 Gillingham Rd, Elizabeth
  - West: 51 Bower Sr, Woodville
• Youth Healthline 1300 13 17 19
  
• Your doctor
• The Cancer Council (South Australia)
  http://www.cancersa.org.au

Australia

• Sexual health information developed by Australian researchers:
  http://www.yoursexhealth.org/

Further reading

Medline Plus, National Libraries of Medicine (USA)  'Testicular cancer'. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/testicularcancer.html

The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Youth Healthline on 1300 13 17 19 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).