How to Check Testicles for Lumps

The testicles are an organ in the male reproductive system. They are each located below the penis and protected by the scrotum. Each testicle is slightly smaller than a golf ball. According to the American Cancer Society, a new case of testicular cancer will be diagnosed in 8,408 men in 2010. Although there are several different types of testicular cancer, they can all be detected in a similar way. Men are encouraged to check for lumps in their testes, which might signal a change in growth and help with early diagnosis.

Instructions

• 1

  Stand nude in front of a mirror, and look for any changes in your testes. Look for any color changes, swelling or visible lumps in either testicle. Another sign of a change can be that one testicle appears abnormally larger than the other.

• 2

  Soak in a warm shower or bathtub. This will soften up the skin and makes the testes easier to exam through the scrotum.

• 3

  Hold each testicle in your hand. Hold them individually and switch to holding the whole scrotum. Feel for abnormalities in weight and shape. It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other.

• 4

  Use your forefinger and your thumb to gently check each testicle. Lightly pinch the skin and testicle between your fingers to feel for any lumps, swelling or abnormalities. Move your hand around the whole scrotum, feeling each area. The more often you do this, the more aware you will be of any changes.

• 5

  Watch for any changes with your penis or scrotum that might signal a change in your body. As well as lumps, swelling, enlargement or pain, it is also important to be able to identify any other signs that should be checked out by a doctor. Other signs include discharge from the penis or scrotum, a very heavy feeling, or enlarged and/or tender breasts.