My mom says that my doctor will probably examine my testicles the next time I have a physical exam. Why?
– Ben*

A testicular exam can make a guy feel a bit awkward or embarrassed, but just like checking a person's blood pressure, it's a normal part of a physical exam. The doctor checks the testicles and the area around them to make sure everything is healthy and that a guy doesn't have any problems. Guys should also learn how to perform testicular self-examinations so they can learn what's normal and what changes to be aware of that might need to be checked out.

For more information, check out these articles:
How to Perform a Testicular Self-Examination
Is My Penis Normal?
Is It Normal to Get Erections?
I'm a Guy. How Can I Talk to My Female Doctor About Certain Things?

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: September 2006
Originally reviewed by: Neil Izenberg, MD

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*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.