Testicular self check

A check once a month, in or after a warm shower, takes a minute. Set your dates and know what you are feeling for.

Your details

Your monthly self check

11 days

until your next check

Next checkSun, 1 November 2026
ThenTue, 1 December 2026
ThenFri, 1 January 2027
ThenMon, 1 February 2027
Age15 to 49 is when testicular cancer is most common

The NHS suggests checking around once a month, during or just after a warm bath or shower: hold the scrotum in your palm, roll each testicle gently between thumb and fingers, and feel the soft tubes at the back. It is normal for one to be slightly bigger or hang lower. You are getting to know what is normal for you, so a change stands out.

See a GP if you notice a lump or swelling, a testicle getting bigger, a heavy or hard scrotum, an ache or pain, or any change that is not normal for you. Most lumps are not cancer, but getting them checked early matters. Sudden severe pain: go to A&E or call 999.

The working

Last checked 1 October 2026, age 28

Your next check is Sunday 1 November, 11 days away, then the first of each month. At 28 you are in the 15 to 49 age group when testicular cancer is most common, so the habit really is worth keeping.

How to check

NHS method

During or just after a warm bath or shower
Hold your scrotum in the palm of your hand
Roll each testicle gently between thumb and fingers
Feel the soft tubes at the back (the epididymis)

What is normal

And what is not

Normal	See a GP
one testicle slightly bigger	a lump or swelling
one hanging lower	a testicle getting bigger
smooth, firm, not hard	a heavy, firm or hard scrotum
soft tubes at the back	an ache, pain or any change for you

Read with care

What this cannot tell you

Check for youOnly you know what is normal for your body.
Diagnose a lumpMost lumps are not cancer, but a GP needs to check.
Replace urgent careSudden severe pain needs A&E or 999.

Questions

Common questions

How often should I check my testicles?

The NHS suggests around once a month, from puberty onwards.

What does a lump feel like?

Often a hard, pea sized lump on the testicle itself. Anything new or different should be checked by a GP.

At what age should boys start checking?

From puberty, usually around 12. Teaching it early makes it routine.

Is testicular cancer curable?

It is one of the most treatable cancers, especially when found early, which is why monthly checks help.

Sources

Last checked 21 October 2026. Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we will fix it.

When to see a GP

See a GP about any lump, swelling, pain or change that is not normal for you, or changes in how you pee. Most turn out to be something minor, and men tend to wait too long. Call 999 or go to A&E for sudden severe pain.