How to check your testicles yourself? (Testicular Self-Exam) Let's talk about this!

How are you? Today we are going to talk about a very important topic. Especially for you men. That is taking care of your testicles and checking them regularly, that is, about the Testicular Self-Exam (TSE) . This is not a big deal, but it is very important for your health .

What is testicular self-examination (TSE)?

Simply put, this is a way to check the appearance and feel of your testicles. It is very important to be well-informed about your body, especially your testicles. That way, you can quickly identify any changes or problems, especially testicular cancer . Sometimes, when you go to the doctor, a doctor may examine your testicles during a routine physical examination. If you do this on your own and notice a lump in your testicles, something unusual, or any changes in your scrotum - the pouch of skin between your penis and anus - you should see a doctor right away. Don't forget this, okay?

When should I start doing this testicular self-examination?

Doctors say that it is a good habit to regularly examine your testicles starting at the age of 15. Do you know why? Testicular cancer is the most common type of cancer in young men between the ages of 15 and 35. But don't worry, if it is detected early, it can be completely cured. That is why this self-examination is so very, very important.

How often should I have this test?

It's a good idea to do this at least once a month . It's even better if you can mark a day on your calendar and stick to it. In addition, remember that it's also very important to have your testicles checked by a doctor at least once a year.

How exactly do you do this testicular exam?

This is easiest to do while standing. When you're ready, follow these steps exactly:

• First, remove your penis and look carefully at the scrotum . Look for any visible changes, swelling, or discoloration.
• Then, slowly grasp the top of your scrotum and find one testicle. Don't panic, do it slowly.
• Use your fingers (thumb, index finger, and middle finger) to pinch the spermatic cord.Check it out. This is the one that connects to the top of the testicle and supplies blood. It may feel like a small, thin cord when you touch it. This is normal.
• Next, gently roll your scrotum between your fingers and feel it. Look for any lumps, swelling, tenderness, or pain . You should check from top to bottom, from all sides.
• Also check the epididymis , which is located at the top of the testicles. This is the part that carries sperm and feels like a soft, tube-like structure. It may feel a little sore or tender when touched. This is also normal, but be concerned if it is a new pain.
• Check the other testicle in the same way. It is very rare for testicular cancer to develop in both testicles at the same time. If you have any doubts about one testicle, you can compare it with the other.

Imagine, a young boy named Nimal, while doing his monthly self-examination, found a small pea-sized lump in one of his testicles. He didn't panic, and went to see a doctor the next day. The doctor examined him and said that it was nothing dangerous, just a small fluid-filled cyst . But Nimal acted quickly, and he was able to free himself from a great fear. That's the importance of this. Do you understand?

Is it normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other?

Yes, it's completely normal. Just like our hands and feet are all different, there's nothing wrong with one of your testicles being a little bigger than the other. And one may be a little lower than the other. Don't worry about these things.

Do I need to shave before a testicle exam? Or is there any other preparation?

No, you don't need to shave your scrotum or do any special preparation before you have a testicle exam with a doctor. However, it's a good idea to wear something that you can easily remove, such as track pants or shorts. For your own comfort, it's also a good idea to urinate before the test. If you're doing this TSE yourself, the best time to do it is while you're taking a shower or after you've finished. Do you know why? The testicles need to be at a certain temperature to produce sperm . The hot water in the shower will make your scrotum a little looser and stay at that temperature. This will make the test easier and more comfortable.

How long does this testicular exam take?

Whether you do it yourself or have a doctor do it at a medical facility , you will undergo this testicular exam.It only takes a few minutes. In fact, it shouldn't take more than two or three minutes. You can add this TSE to your routine at least once a month, right while you shower. It's not that hard, right?

If I see something like a lump, what does a doctor do?

When you go to the doctor and he finds a lump during a testicular exam, don't panic. Here are some things your doctor can do:

• A light is passed through the back of your testicle. This is called transillumination . This allows the doctor to see exactly where the lump is and how big it is. It also helps determine whether the lump is just a cyst (a harmless, fluid-filled sac ) or a solid mass that needs further investigation. A cyst will allow the light to pass through, but a solid mass will block the light.
• The lymph nodes in your groin and inner thighs are checked. Sometimes cancer can spread from the testicles to the lymph nodes, causing swelling and pain there. That's why this test is also important.

Are there any risks with this testicular exam? Does it hurt?

A self-examination (TSE) is very safe and can be a great way to get a better idea of ​​how your testicles look and feel. However, keep in mind that it is never a substitute for a physical exam by a doctor. It is a good idea to have your testicles examined by a doctor at least once a year as part of your routine physical exam. You should not feel any pain or discomfort when you do a self-examination (TSE) . However, if your testicles are swollen or tender to the touch, don't ignore it.

When should I definitely see a doctor?

If you notice a lump, swelling, unusual hardness, or new pain in your testicles during a self-examination (TSE) , make an appointment to see a doctor right away. Don't put it off until tomorrow. He or she will examine you, run tests if necessary, and recommend treatment based on the nature of your testicular problem.

If the lump is causing discomfort, severe pain, or looks red and warm, as if it is infected , go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) .

A common concern: What if my penis becomes erect during a doctor's examination?

This is a question that many people are embarrassed to ask, but it is very important. Some men experience an involuntary erection (an erection) during a testicular exam. You may feel embarrassed, but this is a very normal, natural physical reaction. You may not be able to control it. Doctors see this all the time, so it is not surprising to them. The doctor may ask you to finish the exam, or if he or she would like to leave the room for a few minutes and come back to do the exam when you have calmed down a bit. So don't skip the exam because of this.

Take-Home Message

So, the testicular self-exam we talked about today is a great way to get to know your body better, protect your health, and quickly recognize the early signs of testicular diseases. Remember that the best time to do this is during or immediately after a shower. Also, don't forget to get a testicular exam from a doctor at least once a year. Every time you check your testicles, you become more aware of them. You learn what is normal for you, so you will quickly recognize it if something changes. If you notice any changes or anything new, don't be afraid or embarrassed to see a doctor right away and talk about it. Your health is in your hands! Testicular Self-Exam, Men's Health, Testicular Cancer, Early Detection, Medical Advice, Body Awareness, Healthy Living

👩🏽‍⚕️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) from the Doctor

💬 Doctor, when should I start doing this testicular self-examination?

Son, this is a very important question. We recommend that you start getting into the habit of getting this test done from the age of 15. This is because testicular cancer is most common in young men between the ages of 15 and 35. But don't worry, if it is detected early, it can be almost completely cured. Therefore, it is very worth developing this habit.

💬 So, Doctor, how often should I have this test?

Okay, son, it's a good idea to check your testicles at least once a month. It's even better if you can mark a day on your calendar and keep it. In addition, it's important to remember that it's also very important to get checked by a doctor at least once a year, right?