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Self-Examination for Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that affects men aged 15 to 35. Although there are clinical treatment for men who have testicular cancer, the old adage that talks about an ounce of prevention is always better than a pound of cure still holds true to this day especially when it comes to early diagnosing of testicular or any forms of cancer. To ensure that you are free from testicular cancer, check your scrotum at least once every month.
What Is Testicular Self-Examination (TSE)?
Testicular self-examination is a safe and painless way to find out if your testes are free from possible cancers or other male genitalia problems. It is important to do at testicular self-examination at least once in every month as this is men’s primary defense against testicular cancer especially that such type of cancer is asymptomatic or does not show any signs or symptoms like pain, fever, or swelling. TSE is not a replacement for the physical and clinical examination performed by a professional doctor. It is still recommended that you have yourself checked periodically for any signs of cancer in your body. TSE is just a self-examination method that is designed to be conducted at your personal convenience and at the comforts of your home.
How to Perform TSE
- It is recommended to conduct TSE during or right after a hot bath or hot shower as the skin that covers the testicles or scrotum is most relaxed and is therefore ideal for self-examination.
- Scrutinize one testicle after the other by rolling each testicle with both hands while applying slight pressure in between fingers. You can do this by placing your thumbs on top of your testicle while your index and middle fingers are placed underneath the testicle being checked. Gently roll your testicle in between your fingers while applying some slight pressure on it.
Normal and Warning Signs
While doing the aforementioned testicular self-examination, be particular with any abnormalities on your testicles. To do this, you should primarily identify which among the bumps or lumps are normal and which signs tell you that you need professional check up.
- While doing TSE, it would be normal for you to feel the epididymis or the tube that carries the sperm to the penis. This normally feels soft, tender to the pressure, rope-like, and is found at the upper back part of each testicle.
- Another normal physical aspect of the testicles is that one of them is normally bigger than the other, usually the right testicle.
- Feel for any bumps or lumps on the front or sides of your testicles. Do not disregard any lump no matter how small they may be. Some cancerous bumps can be as small as a grain of rice or a pea.
- You should also look for signs of swelling, irregularities such as changes in size or color of a testicle and lumps. If you feel any pain in the scrotum or groin area, call your doctor right away. This will need immediate medical attention.
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MEN'S HEALTH
