How To Spot Testicular Cancer Early and What To Do Next

Let’s be real: talking about testicular cancer isn’t always easy. But knowing the signs and understanding the treatment options may make a big difference. While rare, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged 20 to 34. The good news? It’s a treatable form of cancer, even if diagnosed at its advanced stage.

What Are the Symptoms of Testicular Cancer?

Pay attention to your body, especially for anything that feels different. Here are symptoms of testicular cancer to look for:

• A painless lump or swelling in either testicle. This is most often the first sign of testicular cancer.
• Changes in how the testicle feels, like hardness or tenderness.
• A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin.
• A sudden build-up of fluid in the scrotum.
• Discomfort or pain in the testicle or scrotum.

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer—there could be other reasons. Always check in with a doctor if you notice anything unusual. For kids, the signs might look a little different:

• A painless lump in the testicles.
• Early signs of puberty.
• Enlarged breasts.

How Is Testicular Cancer Treated?

If testicular cancer is diagnosed, there are several treatment options depending on the type of cancer, how advanced it is and personal preferences. Here’s an overview:

• Surgery: Treatment may start with a simple surgery called an inguinal orchiectomy, where the affected testicle is removed. This helps confirm the diagnosis and lowers the chance of the cancer spreading.
• Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation is usually targeted and precise, aiming to minimize damage to healthy tissue.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be recommended after surgery or if the cancer has spread.
• Surveillance: If the cancer is caught early, some patients choose surveillance. This means skipping immediate treatment and instead having regular check-ups to monitor for any signs that cancer has returned or progressed. It’s a less invasive option, but it does require commitment to follow-up appointments.
• High-Dose Chemotherapy with Stem Cell Transplant: For more advanced or recurring cancers, high-dose chemotherapy might be used. Afterward, healthy stem cells are introduced to help the body recover. This option is more intensive but may be effective for tougher cases.

For children diagnosed with testicular cancer, treatment often starts with surgery to remove the tumor. In some cases, this means removing the entire testicle. If the cancer has spread or comes back, chemotherapy may be used. Some families also explore clinical trials, which offer access to new treatments that are being studied.

Treatments like surgery, radiation and chemotherapy may cause side effects. Some are temporary, like nausea or fatigue, but others—like infertility—may be permanent. Talk to your doctor about options like sperm banking if you think you may want to have children in the future.

Keeping an eye on your health doesn’t stop once treatment is over. Staying connected with your healthcare team and being proactive about check-ups can make all the difference. Regular check-ups, blood tests and scans help catch any signs that cancer might be coming back. And it’s also an opportunity to talk about how you’re feeling and address any lingering side effects.

Moving Forward With Confidence

Facing testicular cancer can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Knowing what symptoms to watch for and understanding your treatment options can give you a sense of control. It’s okay to ask questions, seek support and take care of your emotional health too. You’ve got this, and there’s a team of people ready to support you every step of the way.