Testicular Self Exam

It is recommended that men over 18 years of age check their genitals once a month in order to catch any irregularities that could be early signs of cancer of the testicles or sexually transmitted infection (STI) or disease.

Here's how to do it

TSE is simple to perform and can quickly become a part of your routine. Exams should be performed once a month after a warm bath or shower. (The heat causes the scrotal skin to relax, making it easier to find anything unusual.)

• Examine each testicle separately.
• Using both hands, put your thumbs on top of the testicle and the pads of your fingers under and behind the testicle.
• Gently slide or roll the skin of the scrotum across the testicle. Do not rub.
• Examine the entire area of the testicle. The surface should feel smooth, without lumps or tenderness.
• Feel the side of the testicle closest to the body for the epididymis. The epididymis is a comma-shaped, cord-like tube that stores and transports sperm. It can be easy to mistake the "lump" of the epididymis for an abnormal lump. Cancerous lumps are more commonly found at the front of the testicle. If you're not sure if you have felt the epididymis or a lump, make an appointment at Gannett. You can request a male or female medical provider, depending on who you'd be more comfortable seeing.

If you feel a hardness or lump, notice swelling of the scrotum, or sores or bumps on the genitals, or have discharge or redness or pain, make an appointment with a healthcare provider immediately.

Additional information is availalbel on the following websites:

• Brown University's Testicular Self Exam page
• More detailed information about testicular exams and cancer at The American Cancer Society