Testicular self-exam 

Just as you make sure that the brakes of your bicycle are working, that the battery of your sound equipment is in perfect shape or that your video game is not damaged, you need to pay the same attention to your body so that you know how it works and when something is changing or is not quite right.

Taking charge of your health is a very positive decision, above all when you are young, for you can do a number of things to protect your body, your mind and your emotions.  For example you can follow a plan of healthy eating and exercise, participate in recreational and cultural activities, visit the doctor (eye doctor, dentist, etc.), and adopt a routine of self examination so that you know your body well and notice any unexpected changes, discomfort or pain.

The practice of testicular self-examination is a simple self-help method for the early detection of signs or symptoms that could turn into diseases such as testicular cancer.

The exam involves a detailed exploration of each one of the testicles, paying attention to any swelling, bumps or lumps, hardening,  changes in size or color, and feelings of discomfort or pain in the groin.

This exam should be done every month and always after a hot bath or shower which relaxes the scrotum—the skin that covers the testicles—making it easier to explore each of the testicles (one at a time).

How to examine your testicles:

•    Gently feel your scrotal sac and palpitate gently with your fingers to locate a testicle.

•    With the index and middle fingers of both hands, support the testicle from below and place your thumbs on top.

•    Firmly but gently roll the testicle between the  thumbs and fingers of both hands to examine the entire surface.  

•    Repeat the procedure with the other testicle.

•    Explore with your fingers the tube or duct that is behind the testicle that collects and transports the sperm.

Note:

In most men it is natural that one of the testicles (usually, the right one) is a little larger than the other.

It is natural to feel a little swelling while palpating and pressing the tube or duct behind the testicles.  It is also normal to feel a little pain when you put pressure on it.

You should know that:

Testicular cancer can appear in men between 15 and 40 years of age.

Performing a monthly self-exam helps to detect testicular cancer before it spreads to other organs of the body, and permits early and effective treatment.

References:

http:www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003909.htm

http:www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Sites-Types/testicular