Can I Be Checked for Testicular Cancer Before I Have Symptoms?

Screening tests check for signs of disease in people who don’t have symptoms. There is no screening test that can find testicular cancer before a lump can be felt. You have the best chance of being cured of testicular cancer if it is found and treated when it first begins to grow. That’s why doctors recommend testicular self-exams (TSEs).

TSEs can help you find lumps on your testicles. These lumps are usually painless. Some doctors recommend that you do TSEs once a month after puberty. The American Cancer Society does not recommend a specific schedule. They do recommend that you watch for any changes in your testicles and seek medical help if you find any.

How often you do self-exams is up to you. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and ask how often you should do self-exams. The more often you examine your testicles for changes, the better your chances are of finding those changes early.

You should also visit your doctor each year for a testicular exam. The doctor may be able to find any lumps you may have missed.