Testicular Self-Examination in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Performing regular testicular self-examinations (TSE) helps you learn what is normal for your body so you can notice changes early. In Grand Rapids and across Michigan, early detection of testicular cancer leads to very high cure rates.

Why Men in Grand Rapids Should Check Their Testicles Regularly

  • Around 200 men in Michigan are diagnosed with testicular cancer every year, most often between ages 20 and 50.
  • Testicular cancer is uncommon but highly treatable, especially when found early.
  • Men who have had testicular cancer before have a higher risk of developing it in the remaining testicle.

In West Michigan, where many people are active in outdoor work, sports, and seasonal recreation, it’s easy to dismiss groin discomfort or changes as minor injuries. Regular self-checks help you tell the difference between normal soreness and something that needs medical care.

If you notice any change in your testicles, contact a doctor in Grand Rapids as soon as possible. You can start with:

  • Your primary care provider
  • A urologist at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health
  • Grand Rapids Public Health or the Kent County Health Department for referral information

How Often to Perform Testicular Self-Examination

  • Aim to perform a TSE about once every 4 weeks.
  • Choose a date that’s easy to remember (for example, the first of every month).
  • If you have had testicular cancer and one testicle was removed, continue to examine the remaining testicle. The risk of cancer developing in the remaining testicle is about 1 in 25.

Regular self-exams are a quick, one-minute habit that can make a major difference in early detection.

Understanding Testicle Anatomy

Knowing what you are feeling helps you avoid unnecessary worry and recognize real problems.

Each side of the scrotum usually contains:

  • Testicle (testis) – a small, oval-shaped gland that produces sperm and testosterone.
  • Epididymis – a soft, coiled tube at the back of the testicle where sperm mature. It can feel like a small, firm ridge or a bunch of tiny tubes.
  • Spermatic cord – the cord that connects the testicle to the body, containing blood vessels, nerves, and the vas deferens.
  • Scrotum – the loose skin sac that holds and protects the testicles outside the body. This positioning keeps them slightly cooler than body temperature, which is important for sperm production.

What Healthy Testicles Usually Feel Like

Become familiar with the look, feel, and shape of your testicles. This makes it easier to notice changes.

Typical features of healthy testicles:

  • Each testicle feels smooth and firm, like a hard-boiled egg without the shell.
  • Adult testicle size usually ranges from about 15 mL (similar to a small bird egg) to 35 mL (similar to a small chicken egg).
  • It is normal for:
    • One testicle to be slightly larger than the other.
    • One testicle to hang lower than the other.
  • When handled gently, there should be no pain or significant discomfort.

The epididymis at the back of each testicle can feel like a soft, lumpy structure. This is normal and should not be confused with a tumor.

When and Where to Do a Testicular Self-Examination

In Michigan’s colder climate, the scrotum often tightens in response to low temperatures, making it harder to examine. A warm environment helps the scrotal skin relax.

Good times and places for TSE:

  • After a warm shower or bath (the scrotum is relaxed and easier to examine).
  • In a warm bathroom, ideally standing in front of a mirror.

Make sure your hands are warm to avoid unnecessary discomfort.

Step-by-Step: How to Perform a Testicular Self-Examination

  1. Stand in front of a mirror

    • Look for any visible swelling, changes in shape, or differences between the two sides of the scrotum.

  2. Examine one testicle at a time

    • Use both hands. Place your index and middle fingers under the testicle and your thumbs on top.

  3. Gently roll the testicle between your fingers and thumbs

    • Feel the entire surface of the testicle.
    • You are checking for:
      • Any new lumps or bumps
      • Areas that feel harder or different from the rest
      • Changes in size, shape, or consistency

  4. Find the epididymis

    • Feel along the back of the testicle for a soft, tube-like structure (the epididymis).
    • This is a normal part of the anatomy and may feel slightly lumpy.

  5. Repeat on the other testicle

    • Perform the same steps on the other side.

A TSE should not be painful. If you feel sharp pain or significant tenderness while examining, contact a doctor.

Symptoms to Watch For

Most testicular changes are not cancer, but they still need medical evaluation. See a doctor in Grand Rapids promptly if you notice:

  • A lump or swelling in or on a testicle (usually painless; about 1 in 10 can be painful).
  • A change in the size of a testicle (larger or smaller).
  • A change in shape or firmness of a testicle.
  • A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the scrotum.
  • A persistent dull ache in the testicle, groin, or lower abdomen.
  • Sudden pain, swelling, or redness of the scrotum or testicle.

Remember: testicular cancer is relatively uncommon and highly treatable, especially when found early. Do not ignore a lump, but also try not to panic—get it checked.

Testicular Conditions Other Than Cancer

Several non-cancerous conditions can affect the testicles. These still require medical evaluation and treatment.

Common Non-Cancerous Testicular Conditions

  • Epididymo-orchitis

    • Infection or inflammation of the epididymis and sometimes the testicle.
    • Symptoms: pain, swelling, warmth, and sometimes fever.
    • Treatment is usually antibiotics and rest.

  • Cyst (spermatocele)

    • A harmless fluid-filled sac near the epididymis.
    • May feel like a smooth, small lump separate from the testicle.

  • Varicocele

    • Varicose veins in the scrotum.
    • Affects about 10–15% of men.
    • May feel like a “bag of worms” above the testicle and can be linked to fertility issues.

  • Haematocele

    • A blood collection around the testicle, usually from trauma (for example, sports injuries or accidents).
    • Causes swelling and pain.

  • Testicular torsion (emergency)

    • The spermatic cord twists and cuts off blood supply to the testicle.
    • Symptoms: sudden, severe testicular pain and swelling, often with nausea or vomiting.
    • This is a medical emergency—go immediately to an emergency department (e.g., Spectrum Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids). Rapid surgery is needed to save the testicle.

  • Undescended testicles (cryptorchidism)

    • One or both testicles do not move down into the scrotum before birth.
    • More common in premature or low-birth-weight baby boys.
    • Increases the risk of testicular cancer and infertility later in life. Boys with this history should have regular check-ups and learn TSE as they get older.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Testicular Cancer?

You may have a higher risk if:

  • You had an undescended testicle at birth.
  • You are infertile or have known testicular development problems.
  • You have a personal history of testicular cancer.
  • You have a close relative (father or brother) who had testicular cancer.

If any of these apply, talk to your doctor in Grand Rapids about how often you should be examined and whether you need regular follow-up with a urologist.

Local Grand Rapids Resources and Where to Get Help

If you notice any changes or have concerns about your testicles, contact:

  • Your GP / Primary Care Provider

    • Many clinics in Grand Rapids offer same-week appointments for men’s health concerns.

  • Urology and Cancer Centers in Grand Rapids

    • Spectrum Health (Corewell Health) urology and cancer services
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids urology and oncology clinics
    • Metro Health and Mercy Health urology practices

  • Public Health and Information Resources

    • Kent County Health Department – for information, referrals, and general men’s health resources.
    • Grand Rapids Public Health programs – community education and screening information.
    • American Cancer Society & national cancer organizations – detailed testicular cancer overviews and support resources.

If you have sudden, severe testicular pain—especially in cold Michigan weather when torsion can be more noticeable—go directly to the nearest emergency department.

Key Points for Men in Grand Rapids, MI

  • Around 200 Michigan men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year, most commonly between ages 20 and 50.
  • Regular testicular self-examination (about once a month) helps you notice changes early.
  • It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other.
  • Testicular pain, a new lump, or sudden swelling should always be checked by a doctor.
  • Some conditions, like epididymo-orchitis, are treated with antibiotics; others, like testicular torsion, require urgent surgery.
  • Early detection and prompt care at local Grand Rapids hospitals and clinics lead to excellent outcomes for most men with testicular cancer.

If you are unsure whether something you feel is normal, it is always safer to ask a healthcare professional.