Survivor
Anonymous's Story
Discover Damien Black's personal account of facing testicular cancer, from unexpected symptoms to chemotherapy.
Read their storyTesticular Cancer
Learn about testicular cancer, recognise the signs and symptoms, understand how to check yourself and know when to speak to your GP. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed, you'll also find information about the support available.
If you have any of the symptoms of testicular cancer, or have discovered anything not normal for you – then you must visit a medical professional.
Don’t let embarrassment kill you, don’t be afraid to talk bollocks.
Family history – if your brother or father had testicular cancer you are 4-8 times more likely to develop it
Previous testicular cancer – if you have previously been diagnosed with testicular cancer you are 12-18 times more likely to develop cancer in the remaining testicle (it’s important to attend follow-up appointments)
Undescended testicles (cryptorchidism) – the risk is greater in men where the condition isn’t corrected, or who haven’t had the surgery by age 11-13
Signs & Symptoms
Lump or swelling
A painless lump or swelling in either testicle
Change in size or shape
One testicle becoming larger or changing shape
Ache or heaviness
Dull ache in the lower abdomen or scrotum
Tenderness
Tenderness or pain in the breast area
Most lumps aren't cancer, but any unusual changes should be checked by a GP as soon as possible. Checking regularly is how you learn what's normal for you — and how you spot when something isn't.
How to Check Yourself
Check monthly, during or after a warm bath or shower. It takes 2 minutes and could save your life.
1
After a warm bath or shower
The scrotum is relaxed, making it easier to feel for changes
2
Examine each testicle
Use both hands. Roll each testicle gently between your thumbs and fingers
3
Know what's normal for you
Testicles should feel smooth and firm. It's normal for one to be slightly larger or hang lower
4
Look out for changes
Any lumps, swelling, or changes in size or texture should be checked by a GP
💡 Need help remembering?
Join our WhatsApp Broadcast for a simple monthly reminder, or set one on your phone — we recommend the first day of each month.
When to Speak to your GP
Visiting your doctor
#TalkingBollocks
You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.
​
Even if you're worried about what the symptom might be, don't delay seeing them. Your worry is unlikely to go away if you don't make an appointment. The symptom might not be due to cancer. But if it is, the earlier it's picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment. You won't be wasting your doctor's time.
​
Try not to be embarrassed. What you tell your GP is confidential. Doctors are used to discussing intimate problems and will try to put you at ease.
Recently Diagnosed?
Getting the most out of your GP appointment
When you see the doctor, it can be difficult to remember everything you want to say. These tips will help you get the most out of your appointment.
​
Top Tips:
Write down your symptoms including when they started, when they happen and how often you have them.
Write down anything that makes them worse or better.
Tell your GP if you are worried about cancer.
Tell them if you have any family history of cancer.
Take a friend or relative along for support - they could also ask questions and take notes to help you remember what the GP says.
Ask the GP to explain anything you don’t understand.
Ask the GP to write things down for you if you think it might help.
don’t let embarrassment kill you, don’t be afraid to talk bollocks
Know what to expect
Your GP will examine you and may arrange for you to have the following:
An
ultrasound scan
of the scrotum and testicles – this scan uses sound waves to produce a picture of inside your testicles. It can tell your doctor if the lump is a harmless cyst (fluid-filled lump) or if it is likely to be cancer. It is a painless test and only takes a few minutes.
Blood tests
– you may also have blood tests to check for levels of certain chemicals in your blood, called
tumour markers
. These can help to diagnose some testicular cancers. You will also have other blood tests to check your general health.
Or they may refer you directly to see a
specialist doctor called a urologist
.
Recently Diagnosed?
You’re not alone. Everyone’s experience is different, but here’s what to expect.
Learn More
Your Stories
Our supporters have shared their stories, raw and uncut – in the hope that it might help someone in their journey
Read More
Digital Resources
Whether you’re looking for cancer education, awareness or support – click here to find what you’re looking for.
Discover MoreKnow your risk factors
Undescended testicle
Men born with an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) have a significantly higher risk, even if surgically corrected in childhood
Family history
Having a father or brother with testicular cancer increases your risk by 4-8 times
Previous testicular cancer
Men who have had testicular cancer in one testicle have a 3-4% risk of developing it in the other testicle
Age 15-49
Testicular cancer is most common in younger men, with peak incidence in the late 20s and early 30s
Having one or more risk factors doesn't mean you will get testicular cancer. However, if you have any concerns, speak to your GP.
Facts & Statistics
2,300+
Cases per year in UK
Cancer Research UK 2024
98%
Survival rate when caught early
NHS 2024
15-49
Most affected age group
Cancer Research UK
Myths Busted
Testicular cancer is most common in men aged 15-49, with peak incidence in the late 20s and early 30s.
Most testicular cancer lumps are painless. Pain is not a reliable indicator.
Testicular cancer has one of the highest cure rates of all cancers, especially when detected early.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common early sign is a lump or swelling in one testicle. Other signs include a change in size or shape, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, or a dull ache in the testicle, scrotum or groin. Most lumps aren't cancer — but any change should be checked by your GP.
No. While a lump is the most common sign, some people notice swelling, a change in firmness, a feeling of heaviness or an ache instead. That's why it's important to know what's normal for you — so you can spot any change, not just a lump.
Sometimes — but often it doesn't. Many testicular cancers are painless in the early stages, which is why you shouldn't wait for pain before getting a change checked. Some people do experience a dull ache or sharp pain in the testicle or scrotum.
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15–49, with most cases diagnosed in younger men. It can occur at any age, so it's worth checking regularly whatever your age.
Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable cancers there is — over 95% of men diagnosed survive, and that figure is even higher when it's caught early. Early diagnosis makes treatment simpler and outcomes better, which is why checking yourself matters so much.
Most men treated for testicular cancer can still have children naturally — the remaining testicle usually produces enough sperm and testosterone. Before treatment you'll normally be offered sperm banking as a safeguard. Your medical team will talk you through your options.
Your GP will ask about your symptoms and examine your testicles — a quick, painless check that doctors do all the time. If anything needs a closer look, they'll refer you for an ultrasound scan. Most people referred don't have cancer, but getting checked quickly matters.
Yes — we recommend checking yourself once a month, ideally during or after a warm bath or shower when the scrotum is relaxed. Regular checking helps you learn what's normal for you, so changes stand out. Join our WhatsApp broadcast for a monthly reminder.
It can feel that way — but it really doesn't need to be. GPs examine testicles every week; it's routine for them, and no doctor will think twice about it. A few minutes of awkwardness could save your life. If it helps, you can ask for a male GP when booking.
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed, we're here for you. Request a free Thriver Pack, join our WhatsApp Communities, or explore all the support available.
Real Stories, Real Lives
Survivor
John Livingstone's Story
Hi, my name’s John and in 2017 I was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Read their story Caregiver
Chris's Story
Chris shares his story of being diagnosed with Stage 3 Seminoma at 53.
Read their storyNever miss a check
Join our WhatsApp Broadcast and we'll send you one simple, friendly reminder each month to check yourself. No spam — just a nudge that could save your life.
Get monthly reminders