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No
one's got the health of your balls as close to your heart as you
do. So take charge of their health.
You don't need
any expert knowledge to do a self-exam. And it only takes a couple
of minutes.
When and
where?
Check yourself regularly; once a month is good, so you get used
to how your testicles feel while they're healthy.
The best place
is in the bath or shower, when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed.
Feel your
balls
Hold the scrotum in the palms of your hands and use your fingers
and thumbs to feel your testicles.
Some difference
is perfectly normal; for instance, one testicle may be larger or
hang lower.
Gently feel
each one by rolling it between your thumb and forefingers. Then
press each testicle gently.
You'll find
there's a soft tube at the top and back of the testicle. This is
the epididymis, which carries and stores sperm. Don't confuse this
with a lump; it's supposed to be there. You'll also feel the smooth
spermatic tube which runs up from the epididymis.
What to look
for
Each testicle should be smooth, with no lumps or swellings. Check
for any small irregularities, enlargements or changes in firmness.
A lump that
might be dangerous can be anything from the size of a pea. It's
not usually painful, though there may be a dull ache.
Compare and
contrast
Men don't usually develop cancer in both testicles at once, so if
you are worried about something on one of your testicles, compare
it with the other.
What if you
find something?
If you find any lump or swelling or change in your testicles, go
to your doctor.
Bear in mind
that most swellings and lumps in the testicles are not cancer. They
may, for instance, be benign cysts or fatty tissue. It may be a
false
alarm; but definitely go to see your GP anyway.
Don't panic
Remember, 95 per cent of diagnosed cases are cured. If you're worried
about anything you find during self-examination, the sooner you
get it checked, the better.
Why all the
fuss?
What will happen at the
hospital?
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