Testicular Cancer Self-Check Guide
If you know how your balls look and feel normally, detecting changes is easy. Catch possible signs of testicular cancer early with this quick monthly check.
When & where?
The easiest way to check your balls is standing up, after a hot shower or bath (when the scrotum is relaxed). You might find a mirror helps!
#CheckOneTwo
Check One
Cup your testicles in the palm of your hand and feel their weight.
Often people’s testicles are different sizes, or one hangs lower. But they shouldn’t feel heavier or larger than usual.
Check Two
With both hands, examine one testicle at a time, spending up to a minute on each.
Place your index and middle finger underneath the scrotum, and your thumb on top. Gently but firmly, roll each testicle between your fingers and thumb, feeling for lumps or swelling.
Each testicle should feel firm, but not hard.
What to look for
- A hard lump (often pea-sized) on the front or side of a testicle
- Swelling or enlargement of a testicle
- Unusual hardness in a testicle
- Pain, heaviness or unusual discomfort in the scrotum or testicles
Testicles contain blood vessels and tissue that are easily mistaken for abnormalities. You’ll likely encounter the epididymis, a tube that transports sperm from the testes. It feels like a soft rope-like structure on the back of each testicle, towards the top. Don’t worry — it’s meant to be there!
If you find anything unusual, don’t panic. Speak to your doctor. Most symptoms don’t mean cancer — but you should have them checked to make sure.
