Testicular self-examination

The first sign of puberty in males is testicular enlargement. Once this starts, it’s a good idea to start testicular self-exams (a good once-a-month exam is great practice).

To introduce you to self-exams here’s a bit of anatomy. Your testicles sit inside of your scrotum (skin sack). Your testicles are actually connected to your abdomen by tubes called the epididymis and vas deferens and by blood vessels. You should be able to feel the epididymis on the back of your testicles (shown in the drawing, courtesy of the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation). Your testicles themselves should be smooth and about the same size (though one might be slightly bigger than the other).

Testicle self-exams are especially important in finding testicular cancer. While not super common, testicular cancer is very treatable if found early. Let your doctor know immediately if you feel something odd.