The male counterpart for the self breast exam is the testicular self exam. Men may not take this type of self exam seriously but this is the best way to beat testicular cancer.

As we all know this type of cancer is treatable and if diagnosed at an early stage the chances of fully treating it are high. Just like the self breast exam, the self testicular exam has step by step instructions that have to be followed. These instructions are easy to remember as well as very simple to perform.

Step:

1. Take a warm bath or shower

The heat from these baths allows the scrotum to relax. A relaxed scrotum will allow you to get a better vision of anything out of the ordinary.

2. Stand in front of the mirror

A mirror placed in front of you will be very useful. The mirror will provide you a better view plus it will allow you to check on hard to see areas. It would also be easier for you to evaluate the external appearance of your scrotum when you are standing in front of the mirror.

3. Palpate a testicle with both hands

When palpating always use both hands. By using both hands, you will be able to feel every area of your testicle. The proper position when palpating is to place under the testicle both the middle and index finger while the thumb on the other hand is placed on top. When your hands are already in the proper position gently roll your testicle between your thumb and fingers.

The normal findings while doing this are the following: testicles should be slightly elongated, smooth and firm. You should not feel any pain while rolling. Don't be alarmed if you notice that one of the testicles is slightly smaller than the other; this is perfectly normal. Perform the same procedure to the other testicle.

Testicular self exam is easy and doesn't really take that long. For male ages 20-35 this exam should be done regularly. As mentioned testicular cancer is highly treatable when diagnosed at its earliest stage which increases your chances of beating it.

It really is an advantage if you are familiar with how your testicles feel and how your scrotum looks but for those who are not so familiar, here are some findings that should not be found when performing the testicular self exam.

1. Lumps either mobile or immobile, with or without define edges.

2. Alarming changes in size which could be an increase or a decrease from the normal size.

3. Pain when rolling

4. Heavy Scrotum

5. Fluid filled scrotum

6. Lower abdominal pain or pain on the groin

When you find anything out of the ordinary consult a doctor immediately as the doctors are the only people allowed to make the call of whether or not it is something cancerous. Do not be embarrassed about this. It would serve you best if you tell your doctor everything relevant or anything that might help him get a better perspective of your condition. Keep in mind that when it comes to cancer, early detection is your key to beating it.