How to do a testicular self-examination (in 3 steps)

Testicular self-examination is an exam that men can do at home to identify changes in their testicles, being useful for identifying early signs of infections or even cancer in the testicle, such as a difference in size between the testicles or the presence of a lump.

Testicular cancer is more common in young people aged between 15 and 35, but it is easily treated, as long as it is identified early, and it may not even be necessary to remove both testicles, allowing fertility to be maintained. Find out more about testicular cancer and how it is treated.

In the presence of changes in testicular self-examination, a urologist should be consulted to carry out tests and identify the cause of changes in the testicle and, thus, initiate the most appropriate treatment.

Step-by-step guide to self-examination

Testicular self-examination should be done while bathing, as this is a time when the skin in the genital region is more relaxed, making it easier to manipulate the testicles.

Then, you must follow these steps:

1. Observe whether there are changes in the texture or color of the scrotumstanding, facing the mirror, before entering the bath;
2. Place your middle and index fingers behind the testicle and your thumb on top of the testicle. Then, slide the testicle between your fingers to assess the presence of lumps and other changes;
3. Finding the epididymis and vas deferens, which are the small channels located just behind or on top of the testicle, through which sperm passes, and which can be felt as a small knot in the testicle. These channels must be identified to not be confused with a suspicious mass or a swollen ganglion.

It is normal that during this examination it is identified that there is one testicle that is lower than the other. Warning signs are generally the presence of painless lumps regardless of size, or changes in the size or consistency of the testicles.

When to do a self-examination

Self-examination of the testicles should be done at least once a day, preferably before and after a hot bath, as the heat relaxes the region, making it easier to observe changes. However, self-examination can also be done every day, as better knowledge of your own body helps to identify early signs of various diseases.

Testicular self-examination should be carried out from adolescence onwards, so that men are aware of the normal size and shape of the testicles and can more easily see any changes in these organs.

Signs of testicle problems

During the self-examination, the man should pay attention to changes in the testicles, such as:

• Difference in size;
• Sensation of heaviness in the scrotum;
• Presence of a mass or hard lump in the testicle;
• Pain in the lower belly or groin region;
• Presence of blood in the scrotum;
• Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum.

If there is any type of change, it is advisable to make an appointment with a urologist to identify the right cause and start the most appropriate treatment, as there are several problems that can cause the same changes as cancer, such as epididymitis or hydrocele, for example. . See the main causes of lumps in the testicles.

Make an appointment with a urologist in the nearest region: