sex-and-health > teenagers-and-their-sexual-health

Your partner should be tested too. Chlamydia is the number one sexually transmitted disease in the UK, but it can be cured. So make sure that you are tested.

Genital warts are more common in women than men but can be treated. They are very contagious so please make sure that you and your partner are treated as soon as possible.

Testicular Self Examination

Cancer of the testicles accounts for only about 1% of all cancers in men. However, it is the most common type of cancer in males aged between 18 and 40, and can occur any time after age 15.

Often only one testicle is affected. The cause of testicular cancer is still unknown. Risk factors, however, have been found. These include:

Uncorrected undescended testicles in infants and young children. (Parents should make sure that their infant boys are checked at birth for undescended testicles.)
A family history of testicular cancer. (If you don’t know, then ask.)
Having an identical twin with testicular cancer.
Injury to the scrotum or to a testicle.
It’s five times more common among white males.

What is Testicular Self Examination?

The TSE is a method for males to check their testicles to make sure there are no unusual bumps or lumps, which may be the first sign of testicular cancer. Sometimes cancer of the testicles will spread, so it’s very important to detect it early so that the cancer does not become more serious.

How do I do a TSE?

Check yourself right after a hot shower. The skin of the scrotum is then relaxed and soft.
Become familiar with the normal size, shape and weight of your testicles.
Using both hands, gently roll each testicle between your fingers.
Identify the epididymis. This is a rope-like structure on the top and back of each testicle. This structure is NOT an abnormal lump.
Be on the alert for a tiny lump under the skin, in front or along the sides of either testicle. A lump may remind you of a piece of uncooked rice or a small cooked pea.
Report any swelling to your doctor.

If you have any lumps or swelling, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer, but you must be checked by your doctor. If detected and treated early, testicular cancer is one of the most curable cancers.

Warnings Signs of a Problem

In the early stages, testicular cancer may have no symptoms. When there are symptoms, they include:

Small, painless lump in a testicle
Enlarged testicle
Feeling of heaviness in the testicle or groin
Pain in the testicle
A change in the way the testicle feels
Enlarged male breasts and nipples
Blood or fluid that accumulates suddenly in the scrotum.

(published with permission in writing from:http://www.colbymedical.co.uk)