What should my testicles look and feel like?

The testicles should feel smooth, without any lumps or bumps, and firm but not hard. You may feel a soft tube at the back of each testicle, which is called the epididymis.

If you notice any changes or anything unusual about your testicles, you should see your doctor.

What causes lumps and swelling in the testicles?

There are several causes of testicular lumps and swellings:

• varicocele – caused by enlarged veins in the testicles (may look like a bag of worms)
• hydrocele – a swelling caused by fluid around the testicle
• epididymal cyst – a lump caused by a collection of fluid in the epididymis
• testicular torsion – a sudden painful swelling that occurs when a testicle becomes twisted (this is a medical emergency and requires surgery as soon as possible)
• epididymitis – a chlamydia infection in the epididymis can cause inflammation, swelling and tenderness inside the scrotum (ball sack); a few men will notice that the whole of the scrotum is red and tender (this is called epididymo-orchitis)
• testicular cancer – an estimated 4 in 100 lumps are cancer, so this is an uncommon cause of lumps

What are the signs of testicular cancer?

The early signs of testicular cancer are easy to spot. Look out for one or more of the following:

• a hard lump on the front or side of a testicle
• swelling or enlargement of a testicle
• an increase in firmness of a testicle
• pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum (the sac that holds the testicles)
• an unusual difference between one testicle and the other
• If you find a lump or swelling, or any of the above signs, it's important to get it checked out by your doctor.

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