Regular tests, apart from HIV tests and testicular self-examinations, only really become part of your life when you are older, or if you experience current health problems.
HIV: If you’re sexually active you’re at risk. Be responsible. Even if you are not, get tested. Just do it.
Testicular self-examination: learn to examine your scrotum and testicles after your shower or bath, when your trouser furniture is relaxed and hanging low:
Take each testicle in both hands, one at a time. Roll each one between your thumb and forefinger. You’ll get to know the epididymis, the soft bundle of tubes behind the testicle;
Look for any lumps. They occur mostly on the sides or the front of the testicle;
Repeat this examination every month. If you find anything that worries you, see your doctor. If it’s a false alarm, great! If it’s something more sinister, like testicular cancer the chances of successful treatment are much greater if it’s detected early.
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