Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is often detected through self-examination. Early symptoms can be subtle, so regular self-checks are crucial to identify any changes early. 

The main symptoms of testicular cancer are a painless lump in your scrotum, or a change in the shape, consistency and size of your testicle. 

Other symptoms of testicular cancer may include: 

• pain in your scrotum, lower back, or lower abdomen

• shortness of breath

• nausea

• vomiting

• headaches

• breast tissue growth (caused by the secretion of certain hormones)

It isn’t fully understood what causes testicular cancer; however, certain factors can increase your risk of developing the disease. 

You may have an increased risk of developing testicular cancer if: 

• one or both of your testicles didn’t descend into your scrotum before birth (undescended testicles) 

• you’re between 15 and 35 years of age 

• you have a father or brother with a history of testicular cancer 

• you have difficulty conceiving a child (male infertility) 

• you have a condition where the hole in your penis (urethra) is not at the tip (hypospadias or epispadias)

• you have HIV or AIDS

• you’re of white ethnicity

At your first Welbeck consultation, you will be seen by a consultant urologist. They’ll ask you about your symptoms, general health, family and medical history, and any medications you take regularly. They’ll also perform a physical examination. 

Your consultant will arrange some tests, such as an ultrasound of your testicles and blood tests, to confirm your diagnosis and rule out any other conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

It isn’t possible to prevent testicular cancer; however, monthly self-examinations are the best way to detect any changes early. An early diagnosis is crucial in the treatment of testicular cancer.

Testicular cancer is a serious condition, but usually curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages of the disease. 

Untreated testicular cancer can spread (metastasise) to other parts of your body, such as your lungs, liver, bones, or brain, which is much harder to treat.

Other complications of testicular cancer include: 

• hormonal changes leading to symptoms like breast growth or soreness

• side effects of treatment, such as infertility, sexual problems, and the risks associated with surgery

• psychological and emotional problems such as depression, low self-esteem, and body image issues relating to the removal of a testicle

Treatment for testicular cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of your cancer, its location and your overall health. 

Treatment options include: 

• surgery – involves a procedure called an orchiectomy to remove the affected testicle. A prosthetic testicle can be used to replace the one that has been removed. Surgery is often enough to cure testicular cancer in the early stages 

• chemotherapy – depending on the size and how aggressive the tumour is, you may also have chemotherapy following your surgery

At Welbeck, our urologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialities, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.