Family Planning Program
Tests for men
Screening for testicular cancer
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An important part of the male exam is screening for testicular cancer. During the exam, your health provider will check your testicles (balls) for any unusual lumps, bumps, tenderness or swelling that could signal cancer. Your provider will also talk to you about the importance of checking your own testicles every month. This is called testicular self-exam (TSE). Men who do monthly TSEs have a much better chance of finding testicular cancer early, while it's still very treatable. TSE is easy and only takes a few minutes. Learn how to do a Testicular Self Exam (TSE).
Who is at risk for testicular cancer?
Men of any age can develop testicular cancer, but it is the most common type of cancer for men ages 15 - 35. Testicular cancer can be treated very successfully when it is found early. That’s why it’s so important for men to do monthly TSEs, and to see their health provider for a male exam.
Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)
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During a male exam, your health provider can test for two common types of STDs: gonorrhea and chlamydia.
How are the STD tests done?
To do the tests, your health provider will use a soft cotton swab to collect a sample of fluid from the penis. This is usually not painful, but it may sometimes be a little uncomfortable. Both gonorrhea and chlamydia are easily treated when they are found early.
Will my provider automatically test me for STDs during a male exam?
Some health providers don't test for STDs during a male exam unless you tell them you have symptoms of an infection. However, many STDs don't have symptoms. If you think you might be at risk for an STD, make sure to tell your health provider that you want to be tested.
REMEMBER: It's important to be honest with your provider about your sexual behavior - even though it might be embarrassing. The information you provide will help your provider give you the best care possible, and it will not be shared with anyone else unless you give permission.
Other STD Tests
If you have questions about other common STDs (like herpes or genital warts) and the tests used to diagnose them, click here for more information.
Public Health's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender (GLBT) health webpages are also a great place to get information, resources, and helpful links.
STDs and Sexual Assault
STDs can sometimes be the result of a sexual assault. If you think you may have an STD resulting from a sexual assault and you live in Western Washington, call the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center's Crisis/Information line at 1 (800) 825-7273. Their advocates are willing to answer questions about what STD tests are recommended, how to talk to your health provider about sexual assault, and legal issues.
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