For Guys Only
Planned Parenthood is not just for women. We offer STI testing and treatment and sexuality information for men, too. If you have specific concerns, make an appointment at one of our Health Centers. Call 1-800-230-PLAN (7526) for the Health Center nearest you.
What is A Testicular Self-Exam?
6,900 men each year develop testicular cancer. This cancer is most commonly found in men between the ages of 15 and 35. It is important that men perform regular testicular self-exams in order to identify the early signs of cancer.
The Signs
The earliest symptom is a painless swelling or abnormal bump in the affected testicle.
A man also may experience a dull ache or the heavy feeling in the lower stomach, scrotum, or groin area.
The Test
The National Cancer Institute recommends following these steps every month:
T.S.E. (testicular self-exam) should be performed after a warm bath or shower. Heat will help to relax the scrotum, making it easier to notice anything abnormal.
Examine each testicle with both hands. You shouldn't feel any pain when doing the exam. Don't be scared if one testicle seems larger than the other; that's normal.
- Roll the testicle gently between the thumbs and fingers.
- Find the epididymis--the soft, tube-like structure behind the testicle that collects and carries sperm.
- Check the skin on the scrotum and penis for sores and bumps.
- Look at the opening at the tip of the penis. It should not be red.
- Feel the groin area on both side for lumps or swollen glands.
If you notice anything abnormal, see a doctor, preferably a urologist, as soon as possible. You cannot self-treat testicular cancer; when in doubt get it checked out.
Dealing With Testicular Injuries
Knowing the warning signs of testicular trauma can help you recognize serious symptoms that may require the doctor's assistance.
Types of Testicular Injuries
Testicular Trauma:
It is common for guys to experience pain related to having your testicles struck, hit, kicked, or crushed. The testicles are not protected by muscle or bone, but hang outside the body within the scrotum sac. This positioning on the body makes it easier for them to be hit or injured. The testicles are loosely attached and made of spongy material in order to absorb small amounts of shock without injury, but severe shock can create injury.
Testicular Torsion:
Guys between the ages of 12 and 18 can sometimes experience a loss of blood to the testicular region. Sometimes the testes can become twisted within the scrotum and cause the supply of blood to be cut off. This can occur from shock, strenuous activity, or even develop while a guy sleeps.
Testicular Rupture:
When the testicle experiences direct shock that is severe, or is crushed by an object, it can undergo testicular rupture. The compression of this experience can cause blood to flow into the scrotum. This testicular damage is rare, but very serious.
When Should I Contact A Doctor?
If you experience:
- Pain in your testicles that lasts an hour or longer
- Extreme swelling
- Discoloration of the testes
- A puncturing of the scrotum sac or testicles
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