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Semen Self-Exam

Corresponding to the breast self-exam

The Semen Self-Exam is a simple method that helps every man to check his genital tract health, by himself, at the intimacy of his personal space, without any cost, in a regular basis. It is defined at the scope to teach every man to care about his health. Abnormalities of the menstrual cycle notify women that their ovaries do not function properly. An inflammation of the genital area notifies them that there is an urogenital tract infection. Moreover, apart from the annual Pap-test, the gynaecologist shows them how to auto-examine their breasts monthly for any change in appearance or consistence. Although men do not have symptoms that notify them about the function of their testicles and regardless they do get infected, too, they hardly perceive the signs. However, apart from the annual checkup and the visit to the urologist, men can self-examine their health, too.

How can I check my testicles by myself?

When the scrotum (i.e. the sac of skin containing the testicles) is relaxed, you palpate your testicles looking for any changes in size, any irregularities in surface or whether they are more sensitive in pressure. Notice their size, shape and feel. Normally, an adult’s testicles are ovoid and their size is (2.5×2.5×4.0)cm (approximately the size of a plum), they feel smooth, slightly sensitive in pressure and move almost freely inside the scrotum. Locate the epididymis, a cord-like structure atop and behind each testicle, which is slightly sensitive in pressure, too.

How can I check my semen by myself?

After a three-days’ abstinence, use a plastic cup to collect and observe your semen. The Semen Self-Exam constists in three simple steps:

First step. Volume: shall not be smaller than a huzelnut or bigger than a cherry*.

Second step. Colour and consistency: shall not be transparent, red or brown and shall not contain gels that dissolve later than in 30min from ejaculation.

Third step. Viscosity: the sperm shall not be watery.

WARNING: Warning. The above statements consist only in indications that shall prompt a man to visit an urologist. The absence of these indications does not exclude a pathological condition. Other parameters, such as pH or morphology may be the only ones to be affected. However, only an expert biologist can assess them, while specialized laboratory equipment is necessary. Therefore the periodic andro-test is recommended.

If you notice at least one abnormality, you must consult an urologist.

Read also about the Annual Andrological Checkup.

*More accurately, observe your sperm observe your sperm by using an urine cap and a 5ml syringe. The volume shall not be smaller than 2 or bigger than 5ml.