Testicular cancer

If you’re affected by testicular cancer, you may have many questions about how it is diagnosed, treatment options, side effects and how to stay well. You can find trustworthy information about all aspects of your experience below.

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What is testicular cancer?

Cancer that develops in the cells of a testicle is called testicular cancer. Get an overview of testicular cancer, what causes it and who gets it.

Symptoms

Learn about the common symptoms of testicular cancer and when to see your doctor.

Getting diagnosed

Find out about the tests for testicular cancer, how it is diagnosed and staged, and who will provide your care.

Treating testicular cancer

Testicular cancer that is found early can generally be treated with surgery alone. If the cancer has spread, you may also need chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Managing side effects

Find out about the possible impacts of testicular cancer treatments and how to manage some common side effects such as fatigue, and changes to sex and intimacy.

Life after treatment

Learn about follow-up care, what happens if the cancer returns, and how to look after your physical and mental health.

Questions for your doctorAsking your doctor questions will help you make an informed choice. You may want to include some of the questions below in your own list.

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Diagnosis

What type of testicular cancer do I have?
Has the cancer spread? If so, where has it spread? How fast is it growing?
Are the latest tests and treatments for this cancer available in this hospital?
Will a multidisciplinary team be involved in my care?
Are there clinical guidelines for this type of cancer?

Treatment

What treatment do you recommend? What is the aim of the treatment?
Are there other treatment choices for me? If not, why not?
If I don’t have the treatment, what should I expect?
How long do I have to make a decision?
Should I be treated in a centre that specialises in testicular cancer?
I’m thinking of getting a second opinion. Can you recommend anyone?
How long will treatment take? Will I have to stay in hospital?
Are there any out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare or my private health cover? Can the cost be reduced if I can’t afford it?
How will we know if the treatment is working?
Are there any clinical trials or research studies I could join?

Side effects

What are the risks and possible side effects of each treatment?
Will I have a lot of pain? What will be done about this?
Can I work, drive and do my normal activities while having treatment?
Will my fertility be affected? What are my options for preserving fertility?
Will the treatment affect my sex life?
Should I change my diet or physical activity during or after treatment?
Are there any complementary therapies that might help me?

After treatment

What is my surveillance schedule? How long will active surveillance last?
If the cancer returns, how will I know? What treatments could I have?

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