How to check your testicles: Information for people affected by acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)

This is a step-by-step guide on how to check your testicles. It explains what you need to do and why it’s important. If you have any questions about the self-exam, speak to your nurse or doctor. 

Why is it important to check your testicles?

Leukaemia cells can sometimes hide in the testicles either during or after chemotherapy treatment. This is because there is a barrier between the blood and the testicles known as the blood–testes barrier. This barrier limits how much chemotherapy reaches the testicles. 

It's important to check your testicles regularly during and after treatment. This can help you find any unusual lumps or bumps early. If you notice a lump, no matter how small, please tell us right away.

Checking your testicles: 5 steps

Step 1

Check your testicles every week so you become familiar with their size and shape. This makes it easier to spot if something feels different or unusual down there.

Step 2

The best time to check your testicles is during or after a warm shower or bath. 

This is when the skin that covers the testicles (the scrotum) is most relaxed, so it will be easier to feel for lumps.

Step 3

Check one testicle at a time. 

Using your thumb and index finger, gently grip the top of the scrotum. Pinch the skin lightly so that the testicle doesn’t move during the check-up. 

Between your fingers, you should feel the spermatic cord. This connects the testicle to the rest of your body.

Step 4

Use your free hand to gently roll your thumb and fingers along both sides of the testicle, from top to bottom. Feel for any lumps or bumps. Then, slide your fingers over the front and back of the testicle. 

On the back of your testicle, near the top, you should feel a tube-like lump. This is the epididymis, which  carries sperm. It’s normal and may feel tender when you touch it. 

Step 5

Please tell us if you notice any of the following: 

• Swelling
• Painless or painful lumps of any size
• Changes in the size or colour of a testicle
• Pain or aching in your groin.

Lumps can be very small, like a grain of rice or a pea.

The images on this page were produced by Nemours Kids Health and are used with permission.

Contact us

Adolescent Haematology Nurse Specialists     Tel: 07961 081 686

Young Adult Haematology Nurse Specialists   Tel: 07970 332 961