All you need to know

Testicular cancer is a frightening condition for men and their loved ones. Most often it is diagnosed in young men who are typically not expected to be faced with a diagnosis of cancer. It is actually the most common cancer in young men in Canada. It is also one of the most curable cancers.

The testicles are the main male reproductive organs located in the scrotum and are illustrated in the figure. Testicular cancer occurs when cancer cells develop in one or both testicles. It is usually diagnosed after pain, dull ache, heaviness, lump or swelling is noticed in the testicle.

There are many factors that are considered when deciding treatment for your testicular cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

If detected on time, testicular cancer is one of the easiest types of cancer to treat. So there is nothing mysterious about it: self-examination can work wonders. So relax, feel your balls and do it once a month. To top it all off, it feels good. But what should you be looking for exactly?

Treatments

In recent years, a lot of progress has been made in treating testicular cancer. Surgical methods have been refined, and doctors know more about the best ways to use chemotherapy and radiation to treat different types of testicular cancer. After the cancer is diagnosed and staged, your cancer care team will discuss treatment options with you.

Psychological Aspects

Cancer can affect your appearance, how you feel and how your body functions. It can also have major psychological impacts – it affects your emotions, your relationships, your projects for the future. Some men go through their treatment and find that their life hasn’t changed that much. Others however find that cancer is the biggest challenge they have ever faced. Everyone’s experience is different. 

This section aims to provide guidance, and you can always contact us if you feel the need to do so.

Sexuality & Fertility

When you think testicular cancer, you think sexuality. It’s rather logical. We might as well put your concerns at rest right now – no, testicular cancer does not have a direct impact on erections. Whew!! However, the disease can impact your sexuality and your fertility. This section provides truths and facts.

Helping a diagnosed loved one

It is normal to want to help a loved one who is facing this disease. But understanding that person, providing care and support is a difficult, demanding job that requires tons of empathy, calm and adjustments to your daily life.

Testimonials

Sharing your story means breaking down those taboos, it means helping others feel they are not alone in this. That is why we encourage men who have been diagnosed or who are concerned about the disease to share their stories with us.