Testicular Cancer: Know What to Feel For

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What is Testicular cancer?

 Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the testicles (testes), typically in the germ cells that produce sperm. The good news is that is Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable cancers in men, especially when caught early. 

But many men delay getting checked — not because they don’t care, but because of fear. finding something.  No one likes bad news right? in reality your situation may well be harmless but there is no harm in checking.

Here are the most common fears men face, and the truth behind them:

🧠 FEAR: “What if I find something?”

REALITY:

Finding something early is the best thing you can do. Most testicular lumps are treatable — and many aren’t cancer at all. Ignoring it doesn’t make it go away.

🫣 FEAR: “It’s too embarrassing.”

REALITY:

Doctors have seen it all. Your health is more important than momentary embarrassment. A 10-minute check could save your life.

👩‍⚕️ FEAR: “I don’t want a female or younger doctor examining me.”

REALITY:

Your doctor is there to help, regardless of age or gender. If you’re uncomfortable, ask for someone else — but don’t skip the check.

🔪 FEAR: “I might lose a testicle.”

REALITY:

Yes, surgery is sometimes necessary — but many men live normal, healthy lives with one testicle. The earlier it’s caught, the less invasive the treatment may be.

🧍‍♂️ FEAR: “I’ll feel less like a man.”

REALITY:

Your manhood is not defined by a body part. Courage is getting checked, taking action, and taking care of yourself.

1.  NHS Choices 

• 🌐 www.nhs.uk

2. Orchid – Fighting Male Cancer 

• 🌐 orchid-cancer.org.uk

3. Macmillan Cancer Support 

• 🌐 macmillan.org.uk

4. Cancer Research UK 

• 🌐 cancerresearchuk.org

1. Who is most at risk for testicular cancer?

Answer:

• Most common in males aged 15–45

• Higher risk if you have:

• An undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)

• A family history of testicular cancer

• HIV infection

• Personal history of testicular cancer

2. What are the signs and symptoms?

Answer:

• A painless lump or swelling in either testicle

• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum

• A dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen

• Sudden fluid buildup in the scrotum

• Enlargement or tenderness of breast tissue (rare)

3. Is testicular cancer painful?

Answer:

Often, it’s not painful in the early stages. That’s why it’s important to check regularly even if you don’t feel discomfort.

4. How do I check myself for testicular cancer?

Answer:

• Perform a monthly self-exam, ideally after a warm shower.

• Roll each testicle gently between your fingers.

• Look for lumps, swelling, or changes in size or texture.

• If something feels off, don’t panic — just speak to your GP

5. How is testicular cancer diagnosed?

Answer:

Diagnosis may involve:

• Physical examination

• Ultrasoundof the testicles

• Blood tests for tumour markers (AFP, hCG, LDH)

• In some cases, removal of the affected testicle for biopsy

6. Is testicular cancer curable?

Answer:

Yes. It has a very high cure rate — over 95% when detected early, and even advanced cases often respond well to treatment.

7. What are the treatment options?

Answer:

• Surgeryto remove the affected testicle (orchidectomy)

• Radiation therapy (for some types)

• Chemotherapy(for more advanced stages)

• Ongoing surveillanceand regular scans

8. Can I still have children after treatment?

Answer:

Many men can still father children after treatment. However, fertility may be affected, especially by chemotherapy. Sperm banking before treatment is often recommended.