Testicular cancer - How to check your testicles

How to check your testicles

Check your testicles monthly in the following manner:

• do the self-examination lying in a warm bath or while having a long shower, as this softens the skin of the scrotum (skin sac that holds the testicles), which makes it easier to feel the testicles inside.
• examine the scrotum, looking for any lumps on the skin or swellings inside.
  
• cradle the whole scrotum and testicles in the palm of your hand and feel the difference between the testicles. One is almost always larger and lying lower. This is completely normal.
  
• examine each testicle in turn, and then compare them with each other. Use both hands and gently roll each testicle between thumb and forefinger.
  
• check for any lumps or swellings as both testicles should be smooth except where the duct that carries sperm to the penis, the epididymis, runs. This lies along the top and back of the testicle and normally feels bumpy.

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