Health Services
Self Care

Testicular Self-Examination

Testicular cancer is the leading cause of death in men aged 20 to 35. While the overall risk of testicular cancer is relatively low, men with a history of undescended testicles are at greater risk of developing this type of cancer. Fortunately, testicular cancer is usually curable if detected and treated promptly. Men can easily detect abnormalities which may indicate early stages of testicular cancer by examining their testicles once a month.

Often, the only symptom may be a dull ache in the groin or a sensation of heaviness in the scrotum. There may be no discomfort at all in some individuals.

The testicles are located behind the penis and within the scrotal sac. They are normally smooth and usually of equal size (the left is usually somewhat lower than the right). Testicles produce sperm and testosterone, a hormone which accounts for most male sexual characteristics. A soft tube-like structure, the epididymis, lies along the back of the testicles to collect sperm. Sperm travels up the vas deferens past the prostate and out the urethra during ejaculation.

The American Cancer Society recommends the following procedure for testicular self-examination:

1. Examine your testicles during or after a warm shower when the testicles drop down and the scrotum is relaxed.
2. Examine each testicle with a gentle, firm rolling motion of the testes held between the fingers and thumbs of both hands.
3. Feel for any irregularity on the surface of the testes. Also feel for hardness or swelling, or a difference in size between the two testes.
4. The epididymis is an appendage that can normally be felt along the top edge of the testes toward the back.
5. Report any unusual lump, firmness or swelling to your clinician immediately.

Early detection and treatment are crucial factors in reducing the threat of testicular cancer.

Monthly self-examination is a simple, painless way to reduce the risk of testicular cancer.

More Information/Questions
For more information, Messiah students may call the Health Center at 691-6035.