Before you start
- A couple of minutes in private
- A warm bath or shower (makes it easier)
Why it’s worth checking
Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers in young men, mostly affecting men aged roughly 15–49, and it is very treatable, especially when found early. Regular self-checks help you learn what’s normal for you, so you notice changes quickly.
Method 1 How to check
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Step 1: Pick the right time
Check after a warm bath or shower, when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed.
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Step 2: Hold the scrotum
Stand up and hold your scrotum in the palm of your hand. It’s normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other.
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Step 3: Roll each testicle
Use both hands to roll one testicle gently between your thumb and fingers. It should feel smooth and firm, but not hard.
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Step 4: Find the epididymis
At the back and top of each testicle is a soft, coiled tube called the epididymis. It’s normal; get to know how it feels so you don’t mistake it for a lump.
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Step 5: Repeat on the other side
Check the other testicle the same way, comparing the two.
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Step 6: Look
Look in a mirror for any swelling, redness or change in the skin of the scrotum.
| Sign | What to look for |
|---|---|
| A lump | A hard lump on the front or side of a testicle, often painless and pea-sized or larger |
| Swelling | Swelling or enlargement of a testicle |
| Firmness | A testicle becoming harder or changing texture |
| Heaviness | A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the scrotum |
| Pain or ache | Discomfort in a testicle, the scrotum, the lower stomach or groin |
| Difference | A noticeable change in size between the two testicles |
Method 2 If you find something
Most lumps are caused by harmless conditions such as cysts or fluid collections, but only a doctor can tell.
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Step 1: Book an appointment
See a doctor as soon as you can. Don’t wait to see if it goes away.
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Step 2: Don’t be embarrassed
Doctors check testicles routinely. You can ask for a chaperone.
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Step 3: Expect simple tests
The doctor will examine you and may arrange an ultrasound scan, which is painless and quick.
Troubleshooting
I can’t tell what’s normal
That’s why regular checks help: after a few months, you’ll know your normal shape and feel. If in doubt, ask a doctor to show you.
I felt a lump at the back
That’s most likely the epididymis. If it feels different from the other side or has changed, get it checked.
I’m worried but nervous to see a doctor
Early checks are quick and private, and finding cancer early makes treatment much simpler. Most lumps turn out to be harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I check?
About once a month.
Is it normal for testicles to be different sizes?
Yes, slight differences in size and position are normal. A new or growing difference should be checked.
Can testicular cancer be cured?
Yes, it has one of the highest cure rates of any cancer, especially when found early.
Summary
Once a month, after a warm shower, roll each testicle gently between your thumb and fingers and look for swelling. Know that the soft tube at the back is normal, and see a doctor promptly about any lump, swelling, heaviness or change. Sudden severe pain is an emergency.