HealthService.comA Guide to Male Self Checks (Testicle and Male Breast)
Male self checks (testicle and male breast) are important for any man. Cancers in these areas of the body often go unnoticed until they are fairly well-developed which means that the prognosis for recovery is reduced. But implementing simple male self checks (testicle and male breast) can ensure that you identify problems earlier which gives you a far greater chance of recovery.
Checking your testicles
If you spot testicle cancer early enough then it is easier to treat and you stand a better chance of fighting the disease. It is, in fact, simple to test your testicles as you can spot changes relatively easily. So, you should:
- Get in the habit of checking your testicles once a month (ideally after a bath or shower as the skin will be relaxed then).
- Check your testicles the same way every time - the easiest way to do this is to hold your scrotum in your hands and to use your fingers and thumbs to probe your testicles (both together and individually). Bear in mind that your testicles may not be identical to start with (one may hang lower than the other and one may be smaller than the other).
- Look for changes in size, weight and texture. Look for lumps, bumps and swellings - they should usually be smooth.
Checking your breasts
Male breast cancer is a lot more common than many men think. Again, spot warning signs here early and you give yourself a better chance of recovery. So, you should:
- Get in the habit of checking your breast area regularly to look out for changes that may need checking.
- Look for unusual sign/symptoms such as lumps that suddenly appear or discharge from your nipples.
Regular male self checks (testicle and male breast) will simply make it a lot easier for you if you do develop a problem. In most cases there may be nothing to worry about but, to be on the safe side, do go to your GP for advice if you notice a change/something that concerns you with either your testicles or your breasts.