39 Testicular Self-Examination (TSE) It is important for men to become familiar with the size and feeling of their normal testicles so that they can detect changes if they occur. TSE is a simple 3-minute monthly self-examination. The best time to do TSE is after a warm bath or shower, when the scrotal skin is the most relaxed, making it easier to find anything unusual. 1. Find the epididymis (cord-like structure on the top and back of each testicle for storing and transporting sperm). Do not con- fuse the epididymis with an ab- normal lump. 2. Examine each testicle gently with both hands. The index and middle fingers should be placed underneath the testicle while the thumbs are placed on the top. Roll the testicle gently between the thumbs and fingers. One tes- ticle may be larger than the other this is normal. The testi- cles are usually smooth, oval shaped, and somewhat firm. 3. Feel for any abnormal lumps, about the size of a pea, on the front or the side of the testicle. These lumps usually are pain- less. 4. Stand naked in front of a mirror and look for any swelling in the skin of the scrotum or unusual contours in the groin. Source: Courtesy of the National Cancer Institute, 2001.