There are a few things you can do to keep your testicles safe and in great shape. Let’s take a look!
As with any other part of your body, your testicles are susceptible to injury, disease and a wide range of conditions. And as with your prostate, bladder and kidneys, being in tune with your testicular health is of utmost importance, particularly if you want to have kids.
The testicles are part of the male reproductive system. They have two main functions: to make male hormones such as testosterone and to make sperm. Keeping them safe and in tip-top shape isn’t hard: here are four golden tips for keeping your testicles healthy!
Learn How To Give Yourself a Testicular Examination
Regularly examining your testicles for any abnormalities is the best way to detect cancer early. Scheduling a simple self-examination once a month at home is a great idea.
Here’s how to do it:
• First off, it’s best to do this after a warm bath or shower, when the skin of the scrotum is most relaxed
• Hold your penis out of the way
• Gently roll each testicle between your fingers and thumb, one at a time
• Check for any hard lumps, nodules or abnormalities (changes in the size or shape of the testicle)
• If you find anything of concern, you should see your doctor immediately
Each testicle has a small coiled tube on the upper or middle outer side of the testicle that may feel like an abnormality. This is the epididymis and is a part of the testes, so don’t fret!
Wear Protection When Playing Sports
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often it doesn’t happen. In Australia, cricket is the only sport where wearing protection for the nether regions is the norm. However, there is a range of options available for other common sports like rugby and soccer (which are nowhere near as awkward as a standard cricket cup, by the way).
Do some research and consider what might work for you – it could save you a world of pain!
Quit Smoking (All Kinds)
Smoking is a serious risk factor for several urologic conditions, including cancer in the bladder, kidneys, and prostate. Studies also suggest a close link between smoking cigarettes and testicular cancer. In addition, cigarette smoke contains harmful carcinogens such as arsenic, linked to several types of cancer when exposed to high levels.
A recent study published in Cancer has also suggested a link between smoking marijuana and testicular cancer. Findings indicate that recreational smokers may be twice as likely to develop testicular germ cell tumours or nonseminomas. In addition, multiple studies have also suggested that smoking has an adverse effect on sperm count, sperm mobility. So quit smoking (all kinds) – your testicles will thank you for it!
Eat Plenty of Foods Rich in Antioxidants
Oxidative stress is an important factor in the development of male infertility. There is extreme competition for oxygen in cells of the testes due to the weakness of testicular arteries. Therefore, the testicular tissue and male reproductive system are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress. However, the consumption of antioxidants can break down the oxidative chain reaction and increase the body’s capacity to fight free radical-induced oxidative stress and improve sperm production.
Oxidative stress is also linked to many chronic conditions. In particular, high levels of oxidative stress and the resulting inflammation lead to many types of cancer, including testicular cancer.
Eating plenty of foods rich in antioxidants is great for testicular health (and your overall wellbeing). Fruits and vegetables are your best friend here: prunes, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, oranges, cherries, kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, red bell peppers, corn, and eggplant are just some of the foods that are rich in antioxidants.
Testicular Health with Urology Specialist
If you have any questions about testicular health, testicular cancer or would like to book an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch! Dr Arianagyam is one of the most trusted urologists in Sydney.
While you’re here, learn some more about how we can help you:
Smoking and its Urological Impacts
