Talking about testicular cancer might feel awkward, but it could save your life. That’s the message behind our #TalkingBollocks campaign, which aims to break down embarrassment, get people talking and encourage men to make monthly testicular checks part of their routine.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15–45, with around 2,400 men diagnosed in the UK every year. Knowing what’s normal for you and recognising changes early can make a real difference.

This November, we’re asking men to start a simple habit: check once a month, know what to look for and speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

Why are monthly testicular checks important?

Getting to know how your testicles normally look and feel makes it easier to spot changes. You don’t need any special equipment, and it only takes a few minutes.

There’s no need to feel embarrassed. Testicular checks are a normal part of looking after your health, just like brushing your teeth or going to the gym.

A warm bath or shower can make checking easier, as the skin of the scrotum relaxes. Gently feel each testicle between your fingers and thumb, getting familiar with its usual size, shape and texture.

The aim isn’t to worry about every little difference, but to know what’s normal for you so you can recognise when something changes.

What should you look out for?

Get to know your body and look out for changes such as:

• A lump or swelling in either testicle.

• A change in the size, shape or feel of a testicle.

• A testicle that feels unusually hard.

• A dull ache, pain or discomfort in a testicle or scrotum.

• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.

  
  

Not every change means cancer, but if you notice something unusual, contact your GP promptly and get it checked. 

“That advice saved my life”

Tom Williams, 29, from Clacton-on-Sea, knows first-hand how important it is to recognise changes and speak up.

Tom was diagnosed with stage 2 testicular cancer at the age of 22 after discovering a tiny lump while having a bath. He told his Dad, who encouraged him to get it checked.

“I found a tiny lump in the bath and told my Dad. He said straight away, ‘Get it checked.’ That advice saved my life.”

Tom’s experience is a powerful reminder that knowing the signs and seeking medical advice can make a real difference.

Let’s get #TalkingBollocks this November

At The Robin Cancer Trust, we believe no one should have to face testicular cancer alone. We’re working to raise awareness, educate young people and break down the stigma that can stop people talking about their health.

You don’t need to be an expert to start a conversation. Talk to your mates, your brothers, your Dad, your partner or your colleagues. Share information, remind someone to check themselves, or simply make it clear that there’s nothing embarrassing about looking after your health.

Men’s Health Awareness Month is a great opportunity to start, but monthly checks and open conversations matter all year round.

Here’s how you can get involved this November:

• Check yourself: Make a monthly testicular check part of your routine.

• Start a conversation: Encourage the men in your life to get to know their bodies and speak up about any concerns.

• Spread the word: Share our #TalkingBollocks campaign and help more people recognise the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer.

  
  

A few minutes once a month could make a difference. Get to know your balls, know what’s normal for you, and don’t be afraid to talk bollocks.

Together, we can save lives.

Find out more about testicular cancer, signs and symptoms, and how to check yourself.

The Robin Cancer Trust is the UK’s only charity dedicated to testicular and ovarian cancers, delivering life-saving awareness, education and support.