How do I check for testicular cancer?

Lots of people talk about checking themselves to try and spot cancer early. It’s good to be aware of what your body is normally like, so it’s easier to notice if anything changes. 

Checking yourself for symptoms of cancer is different to cancer screening. Screening means testing people for early stages of a disease before they have any symptoms.

There is no national screening programme for testicular cancer in the UK. This is because there isn’t a reliable test that can pick up testicular cancer at an early stage.

What do I look for?

You should make an appointment to see your doctor about any changes you find. Cancers are easier to treat when they are found early.  

It helps to know what your testicles usually look and feel like, and to be aware of their normal size and weight. This can make it easier to spot anything that is unusual for you or doesn’t go away. 

It’s a good idea to look at and feel your testicles every now and then. Some people find it easier to do this during or after a warm bath or shower. But there’s no need to do it regularly in a set way at a set time. There is a lack of evidence to show that doing regular self-checks in a certain way are of benefit.  

Check your testicles for:

• the size and weight

• any lumps or swellings

What to do if you think you are at risk of testicular cancer?

Speak to your GP if you think you are at higher risk of testicular cancer.

Your GP can talk to you about what you can do to find testicular cancer early. This includes checking your testicles for lumps and swellings, or any other changes.