Testicular Self-examination

GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is it?

• Checking your testicles (TES-ti-kls) for lumps and other changes is called a testicular (tes-TIK-u-lar) self-examination (TSE). The testicles are egg-shaped organs inside the scrotum (bag of skin hanging behind your penis). Doing regular TSE can help you learn how your testicles normally look and feel. Then if you have lumps or changes, you may find them and tell your caregiver right away. The chances for curing testicular cancer are good if it is found early.
  
  
• Testicular self-examination done regularly is very important, but it cannot replace a caregiver's examination. Make sure that your caregiver checks your testicles when you have your regular physical exam. Ask your caregiver to teach you how to do a TSE if you are not sure that you are doing it correctly.

Why should I do a TSE? Learning how to check your testicles can save your life. Testicular cancer is the most common type of cancer in men 15 to 35 years old. It can also happen to men of any other age. The main sign of this cancer is a lump in the testicle.

When should I do a TSE? You may start checking your testicles regularly after you have gone through puberty. Puberty is the change that a boy goes through to become a man. During this time, a man gets broad shoulders, a low voice, and body and facial hair. An easy way to remember to do TSE is to do the exam on the same day of each month. Doing TSE is your choice. Talk to your caregiver to help you decide when and how often to do TSE.

How should I do a TSE? A TSE can be done quickly. The best time to do a TSE is after a warm shower or bath. This is the time when your scrotum is most relaxed.

• __ 1. Stand in front of the mirror and look at your scrotum. Look for changes in its shape, size, and color. It may be normal for one side of your scrotum to appear larger or hang lower than the other.
  
  
• __ 2. Use both hands to examine each testicle. Put the thumbs of both hands in front of your testicle. Place your second (pointer) fingers of both hands behind the testicle. Gently roll each testicle between your thumbs and fingers. Feel for lumps or changes in the testicle and scrotum.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about TSE. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care will be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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