How to check your testicles: a 3 minute habit
· @janet
Women have been checking for lumps and changes for years. We're taught how to do it, we're reminded at our check-ups, and we talk about it with our friends without blinking. Somewhere along the way it became normal, and that's a good thing.
For a lot of men, it's a different story. Checking their testicles feels awkward. Talking about it feels even worse. So many men simply don't do it, or don't know how.
This Movember, I want to help change that. Checking takes a few minutes in the shower, and it's one of the simplest ways to know your own body. Here's what Movember recommends, step by step.
Why it matters
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men, according to Movember. Here in Aotearoa it's most common between the ages of 18 and 39 (Te Aho o Te Kahu). That's the age when most guys feel bulletproof and think health is something to worry about later.
The good news is that when it's caught early, testicular cancer is highly curable. Movember puts the survival rate at more than 95% (Movember). Catching it early starts with knowing what's normal for you, so you notice when something changes.
How to check, step by step
Movember keeps it simple: three steps, about once a month (Movember Know Thy Nuts guide).
- Get warm first. Check during or after a warm shower or bath. The warmth relaxes the scrotum, so everything is easier to feel.
- Check one side at a time. Gently roll one testicle between your thumb and fingers. Feel its shape, size and consistency, and notice any lumps, swelling or pain.
- Repeat on the other side. Then make a mental note of how things feel, so next month you're comparing with your own normal.
Healthify NZ also suggests standing in front of a mirror first to look for any swelling.
What's normal. Healthy testicles feel smooth, firm and sensitive, but not painful (Movember). It's common for one to be slightly larger than the other. At the back of each testicle is a coiled tube called the epididymis, which normally feels a bit ropey (Healthify NZ). Knowing this means you won't mistake normal for a problem.
If something feels different
See your GP if you notice any of these (Movember, Healthify NZ):
- A lump, even a small one
- Swelling, or a change in size, shape or feel
- Pain, aching or discomfort that doesn't go away
- Anything that feels new or unusual for you
Don't panic. Healthify NZ notes that in most cases the cause of a lump or swelling isn't serious. But it always needs checking, and sooner is better.
One exception is urgent. Sudden, severe pain in the testicles or lower belly needs medical help straight away (Healthify NZ).
And to the women reading this: you already know how this works. Share it with the men in your life. Sometimes all it takes is someone saying, "Have you checked?"
FAQ
How often should I check? About once a month. Movember suggests making it a habit, like part of your shower routine.
What age should I start? Testicular cancer is most common between 18 and 39, but it can happen at other ages too (Te Aho o Te Kahu). Starting young means you know your normal early.
One of mine is bigger than the other. Is that a problem? Usually not. It's common for one testicle to be slightly larger (Healthify NZ). What matters is noticing a change.
I found a lump. Does that mean cancer? Not necessarily. Most lumps and swellings have a cause that isn't serious, but every one needs checking by a doctor.
Is it awkward to bring up with my GP? Your GP checks this all the time. A few awkward seconds is a small price for peace of mind.
