The purpose of this article is to discuss a sensitive issue to many men: testicular cancer. This subject has been overlooked due to recent increased focus on prostate cancer. A recent study at the University of Liverpool showed that two-thirds of prostate cancer patients do not need treatment. However with testicular cancer, there are other concerns, such as the possibility of having a heart attack at a younger age. There is no way to prevent testicular cancer. The good news, though, is that it can be detected early.
Symptoms of testicular cancer include an enlarged testicle, hydrocele, and pain in lower abdomen or scrotum. Bear in mind, testicles are not symmetric. One testicle is larger than the other, and this is normal. If, however, there is a noticable enlargement, examination by a urologist is recommended. A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac inside the scrotum. Frequently benign and painless, these usually go away on their own. A combination of symptoms is cause to make an appointment with a urologist.
Just as women should perform regular breast exams, men should perform regular testicle exams. Fortunately, for many (if not most) men, the idea of manual examination is not an alien notion. In fact, self examinations can be-well-pleasant. Further, for couples, there is the option of mutual examinations - and who knows where that could lead?
So how, exactly, is a testicular examination performed? First and foremost, relax. Second, make sure that you are in a place that is comfortably warm, like in the shower or laying in bed. As any man knows, cold air makes certain body parts shrivel up like a stack of dimes, and other parts shrink upwards and inwards as though seeking shelter somewhere up in the stomach. With your non-dominant hand, cup your testicles. With your other hand, use your fingertips to feel each testicle - one at a time. Feel from the back top downward, working your way around to the front. Be sure to feel the space in between the testicles, too. You are feeling for anything out of the ordinary - and with regular examinations, any variation from the norm will be almost instantly obvious, whether the examination is performed individually or with a partner.
In summary, testicular cancer is a serious condition that shows few symptoms at the outset. The best way to detect it is by being proactive, either through routine self-examinations or having your partner perform routine examinations. As with any matter related to sexual health, be responsible. Practice makes permanent.
Sources:
https://www.google.com/health/ref/Hydrocele
http://testicularcancersymptoms.org/
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090923102335.htm
