Urology Health - How do you do a Testicular Self-Exam?

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  2. Urology A-Z
  3. Testicular Self-Examination

How to Perform Self-Exam

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  2. Urology A-Z
  3. Testicular Self-Examination

How do you do a Testicular Self-Exam?

  • Do the exam while standing
  • Look for swelling in the scrotum
  • Gently feel the scrotal sac to find a testicle
  • Check each testicle one at a time by firmly and gently rolling it between the thumb and fingers of both hands to feel the whole surface

Diagram of Male Reproductive Organs

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Note:

  • It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other
  • It is normal to feel a cord-like structure (called the epididymis) on the top and back of each testicle

Check with your health care provider:

  • If you find a small, hard lump (pea size)
  • If there is swelling, pain or soreness
  • If you see or feel any other changes

Updated March 2024.