A testicular self-examination (TSE) is an easy way for guys to check their own testicles to make sure there aren't any unusual lumps or bumps, which can be the first sign of testicular cancer. You may be used to having a doctor examine your testicles, but it's important for you to know how to examine them, too. Monthly TSE's are an important part of men's health care. There is a way for men to learn what is normal for their body and to detect any changes that may need further evaluation.
Why Should I Do a TSE?
Much like changes in breasts, testicular change may be detected early through regular self-exams. While many thickenings or lumps are normal, some could be infections or the early stages of cancer. Although testicular cancer represents less than 1% of all cancers in men, 18-30. Testicular cancer is usually curable when detected early. That is why TSE's are so important.
Most cases of testicular cancer are discovered by TSE's. Because testicular cancer has an excellent chance for cure if detected early, it is important to take a few minutes to do a testicular self-exam. It doesn't take much effort to search for small lumps, and you only have to do it once a month.
How to Perform a TSE
- Start by standing naked in front of a mirror and visually checking for any swelling on the scrotal skin.
- Then use your fingers to examine each testicle. Place your index and middle fingers on the underside of the testicle and your thumb on the top.
- Gently roll your testicles between your thumb and fingers. Look for an abnormal lump about the size of a pea. Repeat this procedure for the other testicle.
- The best time to examine your testicles is right after a hot bath or shower. The scrotal skin is most relaxed after a bath or shower and it is easier to spot anything abnormal.
What do I look for?
It's easy for a man to overlook or even ignore the early, subtle signs of testicular problems. Typically, the two most common symptoms related to a testicular abnormality are either in a small, painless lump in a testicle or a slightly enlarged testicle.
Other possible symptoms include:
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- A change in the way a testicle feels
- A dull ache in the lower stomach or groin
- A sudden accumulation of blood fluid in the scrotum
These symptoms can be infections, cancer, or other conditions. A healthcare provider can determine what the problem might be and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
If you do find an unusual lump, it will most often be a firm area on the front and side of the testicle. If you find a change in either testicle, consult your healthcare provider. The lump may be doe to any number of things and your health care provider can recommend appropriate treatment.
Testicular Cancer
Although testicular cancer is unusual, it is the most common cancer in men 20 to 34 years of age. For example, Comedian Tom Green and Tour de France champion bicyclist Lance Armstrong have both successfully won battles with testicular cancer. But denial and embarrassment about the testicles contribute to testicular cancer being one of the least mentioned cancers. The cause of testicular cancer is unknown.
Testicular cancer is highly treatable when diagnosed early. Depending on the type and stage of testicular cancer, you may receive one of several treatments, or a combination. Regular testicular self-examinations can help identify dangerous growths early, when the chance for successful treatment of testicular cancer is highest.
Testicular Injuries
What Are Testicular Trauma and Torsion?
Because the testicles hang in a sac outside the body, they are not protected by bones and muscles like the rest of the reproductive system. The location of the testicles makes it easier for them to be injured or hit, a painful sensation most guys have experienced at some time. Generally, because the testicles are loosely attached to the body and are made of a spongy material, they are able to absorb the shock of impact without permanent damage. It's common for guys to experience testicular trauma, which is when the testicles are struck, hit, kicked, or crushed. Almost all testicular injuries occur during sports.
Another common type of testicular problem that occurs suddenly is called testicular torsion, and it occurs in one out of 4,000 guys younger than 25. Within the scrotum, the testicles are secured at either end. Sometimes, a testicle can become twisted, cutting off the blood vessels that supply blood to the testicle. Testicular torsion might occur as the result of trauma to the testicles, strenuous activity, or it might develop while a man sleeps.
An extremely rare type of testicular trauma is called testicular rupture. This condition may occur when the testicle receives a direct blow or when the testicle is crushed by some object. The testicle is compressed against the pubic bone, crushing the testicle against the bone and the object, causing blood to leak into the scrotum.