Testicular cancer is very treatable if it’s found early. Your doctor can check your testicles during an exam. A self-exam is another good way to check for testicular cancer (see below for self-exam directions). If you find anything unusual during a self-exam (like a lump or swelling), see your doctor right away.

How do I do a testicular self-exam?

The best time to do the exam is during or right after a shower or a bath. The warm water relaxes the skin on your scrotum and makes the exam easier.

—      Check your testicles one at a time. Use one or both hands.

—      Cup your scrotum with one hand to see if there is any change from the way it feels normally (Picture #1).

—      Place your index and middle fingers under one testicle with your thumb on top.

—      Gently roll the testicle between your thumb and fingers.

—      Feel for any lumps in or on the side of the testicle (Picture #2). Repeat with the other testicle.

—      Feel along the epididymis (a soft, tubelike, comma-shaped structure behind the testicle that collects and carries sperm) for swelling (Picture #3).

It’s normal for one testicle to be a little bit bigger than the other. The testicles should be smooth and firm. If you feel any bumps or lumps, visit your doctor right away.