You already probably touch them several times a day, or wash them once a day, so why not make the best use of that time with the boys. There is a painless, somewhat quick test that you should be performing at least once a month, and it’s called… (Insert drum roll here) the Testicular Self Exam or TSE for short. If you are over the age of 15, it’s a good habit that you should get into because it will prevent you from having health problems down the road.

The Sex Ed Guru Says: "True! The TSE should start at age 15. Males ages 15-39 run a greater risk of testicular cancer, and the monthly TSE can help with early detection."

So follow these steps which will take you about 2-3 minutes…

1. Take a warm shower or bath to loosen up your balls.
2. Start with your right nut sac.
3. Place your index finger and your middle finger underneath the sac.
4. Place your thumb on top of the sac.
5. Ever so GENTLY, you are going to roll your testicle between your thumb and two fingers underneath.
6. Repeat with your other testicle, give yourself a pat on the back, and call it a day.

During this time with your nutty buddies, you are feeling for any lumps about the size of a pea. Other things you should keep in mind as you get older is that if you have any dull aches or pains in your groin area, or you notice that one of your balls is getting a lot bigger than the other, GO SEE YOUR DOCTOR!

The Sex Ed Guru Says: "You should also visit your doctor once a year for a clinical testicular exam. So once a month by yourself and once a year with your doctor. If you ever notice any unusual lumps, let your doctor know immediately."

Don’t let a simple question or concern go unanswered or unaddressed. A few minutes of embarrassment is a lot better than finding out later that you could have prevented some serious treatments or surgeries. If you have any questions about giving yourself a TSE exam, you can always talk with your friends or visit your local Planned Parenthood.