Watching for Signs

The National Cancer Institute recommends that men conduct a monthly self-examination for testicular cancer. The exam should be done after a warm shower or bath when the scrotal sac is relaxed. Do one testicle at a time.

* Put your index and middle fingers for both hands under the testicle and rest your thumbs on top.

* Roll the testicle between the thumbs and fingers and feel for small lumps.

* Feel for swelling or hardening of the entire testicle. Although it’s common for one testicle to be larger than the other, take note if one is larger than normal.

* Other signs to watch for include a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum, fluid in the scrotum and any enlargement or pain in the breasts.

None of these symptoms is a sure sign of cancer, but if they last for two weeks, see a doctor.