The Student Room Group

Testicular self exam

I'm trying to learn how to do this exam, but it's pretty confusing what you're supposed to be checking for (except saying lumps). Also usually the balls are not hanging down easily.

I was a bit paranoid because I felt some pain sometimes but more from twisting of the testicles I think



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Also I was trying to followed some on YouTube like this one before - it's an age restricted guide for over 18s.

But it's more confusing?
(edited 5 years ago)
Original post by ssandro
I'm trying to learn how to do this exam, but it's pretty confusing what you're supposed to be checking for (except saying lumps). Also usually the balls are not hanging down easily.

I was a bit paranoid because I felt some pain sometimes but more from twisting of the testicles I think



-----

-----
-----


Also I was trying to followed some on YouTube like this one before - it's an age restricted guide for over 18s.

But it's more confusing?


The NHS will have guides. Look it up online or go into a pharmacy for a leaflet.
(edited 5 years ago)
Reply 2
Original post by DrawTheLine
The NHS will have guides. Look it up online or go into a pharmacy for a leaflet.

Thanks and is the way he's doing it in the video OK? It looks like he's squeezing a lot?

If I squeezed them like he is in the video, I think I'd make the problem a lot worse

But I think I'm going to go to the doctor in a few weeks anyway. I was paranoid about this because I think they were twisting sometimes. I don't think I have cancer. But maybe they hurt sometimes like they are twisted.
(edited 5 years ago)
Original post by ssandro
Thanks and is the way he's doing it in the video OK? It looks like he's squeezing a lot?

If I squeezed them like he is, I think I'd make the problem a lot worse

But I think I'm going to go to the doctor in a few weeks anyway. (I was paranoid about this because I think they were twisting sometimes)


I didn't watch the video.
Original post by DrawTheLine
I didn't watch the video.


Why not?
Reply 5
In the NHS I think there's a separate clinic where you're supposed to book.
Reply 6
Original post by Notoriety
Why not?

Well I don't blame them if they're eating dinner for example.

It was the most informative one I could find, but I still couldn't diagnose myself from it.

Anyway I think maybe I should book to see a clinic or doctor just to be sure. I haven't been examined ever before.
Original post by Notoriety
Why not?


On the app there is no video, just a bunch of dashes.
Reply 8
Original post by DrawTheLine
On the app there is no video, just a bunch of dashes.

Oh thanks anyway I didn't realize. Are you a medical student?
(edited 5 years ago)
Original post by DrawTheLine
On the app there is no video, just a bunch of dashes.


I supposed you would have little use for the info, also.
Reply 10
Original post by Notoriety
I supposed you would have little use for the info, also.

Why is it the video not valid?

It's funny there's a lot of resources for this, but actually practical ways to diagnose yourself if you feel an ache - still not easy.
(edited 5 years ago)
Original post by Notoriety
I supposed you would have little use for the info, also.


Ha, exactly.
Reply 12
Original post by DrawTheLine
On the app there is no video, just a bunch of dashes.



Are you a medical student?

Maybe I need to ask those, if in their forum.
Original post by ssandro
Oh thanks anyway I didn't realize. Are you a medical student?


No I'm not.
I am not a medical practitioner but when doing testicular exams, it is important you do a very casual test where you simply glide your fingers along the balls and check for any lumps but also irregularities or thickness differences in the testicles or the scrotum. 90% of the time, if its something like cancer, it will present as a lump but it doesn't have to (ie cause other symptoms but cancer generally will cause something obvious to happen, especially in the testicles).

Also it's very important you do not over strain your testicles while examining, this includes squeezing or aggressively moving it to check for anything. This might end up doing more damage than helping you because the testicles are not surrounded by very thick tissue, just the scrotum so excessive actions like these can really cause damage sometimes (minor but still best to avoid that).

But it's very important if you have any worries, even if you feel it isn't significant to go and see a doctor or a specialist. A simple examination can clear most things up and if needed an ultrasound can provide a final conclusion. Most lumps in the area are not cancer so don't worry too much if you notice anything but also it is one of the most curable cancers to exist and so early detection can really help. I think seeing a doctor is the best way to let your mind ease.

I hope this helps! :smile:
Reply 15
Thanks a lot Mezmorized Potato. Yes this is what I've been trying to do and that was informative, with similar advice as in the video.

I read it's supposed to feel smooth on the surface, and I think my testicles both feel smooth on the surface. I thought there were some lumps behind, but I they could be the spermatic cord.

I have some kind of aching feeling sometimes in the top corner. I think it's because it's twisting sometimes maybe.
(edited 5 years ago)
Quite simple really, right goes on right palm and left goes on left palm, you simply use your thumb and the finger next to it.
Original post by ssandro
Thanks a lot Mezmorized Potato. Yes this is what I've been trying to do and that was informative, with similar advice as in the video.

I read it's supposed to feel smooth on the surface, and I think my testicles both feel smooth on the surface. I thought there were some lumps behind, but I they could be the spermatic cord.

I have some kind of aching feeling sometimes in the top corner. I think it's because it's twisting sometimes maybe.


The lumps behind a lot of the time are usually the cords eg the epididymis and tubes. But if you are concerned about ANY lumps or a feeling of it, see a GP, they can easily clarify it for you and put your mind at ease!! They can tell if the lumps are directly on the testicle or part of the epididymis structure.

If you get an ache, it's good to see a doctor too, they can just check it up and send you to a scan to see what's going on. Don't let something like this feel like a burden and see a GP because it really does chill you out after clarifying things.
Original post by ssandro
I'm trying to learn how to do this exam, but it's pretty confusing what you're supposed to be checking for (except saying lumps). Also usually the balls are not hanging down easily.

I was a bit paranoid because I felt some pain sometimes but more from twisting of the testicles I think



-----

-----
-----


Also I was trying to followed some on YouTube like this one before - it's an age restricted guide for over 18s.

But it's more confusing?


Hi. I've edited out your video because it contains mature content which is not allowed on site.

If you are still confused about self exams after looking at advice you could always book to see your GP or a sexual health clinic for advice.
Essentially the goal is to feel the whole area for any lumps. So just use your fingers to gently squeeze and rub the area.
This link gives an explanation of what you're feeling for
https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/mens-health/what-should-my-testicles-look-and-feel-like/

As far as squeezing or pressure goes just don't do anything that is painful.

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