Testicular health screening allows individuals to monitor their bodies for subtle changes. This preventative measure is relevant for the early detection of conditions like testicular cancer, which is highly treatable when found in its initial stages. Familiarity with normal anatomy allows a person to quickly identify an abnormality, improving long-term outcomes. Understanding when and how to perform self-checks and when to seek professional medical advice is an integral part of male wellness.
Recommended Age and Frequency for Self-Exams
Testicular Self-Examination (TSE) should begin around the onset of puberty, typically starting at age 15. This is recommended because testicular cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in males between the ages of 15 and 35. Establishing a routine at this age helps create a baseline awareness of what is normal for an individual’s body.
The recommended frequency for the exam is once a month. Performing the exam monthly helps ensure that any subtle changes in size, shape, or texture are noticed promptly. Early recognition is directly linked to the high survival rate, which exceeds 97% when the cancer is localized to the testicle.
While there is no universal consensus from major medical bodies to recommend self-exams for all men, many healthcare providers endorse the practice for its value in promoting body awareness and timely intervention.
Performing the Testicular Self-Examination
The most effective time to perform a self-examination is during or immediately following a warm bath or shower. The heat causes the scrotal skin to relax, making it easier to feel the underlying structures.
Begin the examination by visually inspecting the scrotum for any changes in appearance, such as swelling or discoloration. Next, gently examine each testicle separately using both hands, holding one testicle between the thumbs and fingers. Roll the testicle gently to feel the entire surface.
A normal testicle should feel firm, smooth, and oval-shaped. It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other and for one to hang lower. On the top and back of the testicle, you will feel a soft, rope-like structure called the epididymis. Feel for any hard lumps, nodules, or changes in the consistency of the testicle itself.
Clinical Examinations and Doctor Guidance
Self-exams are valuable for personal monitoring but are not a substitute for professional medical oversight. A healthcare provider should perform a clinical testicular examination as part of a routine physical check-up, typically at least once a year.
During this exam, the physician assesses the size, weight, and texture of the testicles and checks for any suspicious swelling or lumps. They will also check the lymph nodes in the groin, as these are the first sites where testicular cancer may spread. If an abnormality is found, the doctor may perform a transillumination test, shining a light through the scrotum to help determine if a mass is solid or fluid-filled.
Individuals with specific risk factors, such as a personal history of testicular cancer, a family history of the disease, or a history of an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism), should discuss the need for more frequent clinical screenings with their physician.
Key Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Consultation
Seek immediate medical consultation if any change is detected during a self-examination. The most common sign is a painless lump or swelling on either testicle. Other symptoms include any noticeable change in the size or shape of a testicle, or a feeling of unusual heaviness in the scrotum. Some men also experience a dull ache or pain in the testicle, scrotum, or lower abdomen. While most lumps are not cancerous, only a doctor can properly diagnose the cause.