Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that affects the testicles, which are two small, egg-shaped organs located in the scrotum. It is the most common cancer in men ages 15-34. While testicular cancer is not usually life-threatening, it can impact fertility and cause permanent damage to the reproductive system.
Does Testicular Cancer Affect Sperm?
Testicular cancer can affect sperm production and quality. Depending on the type of testicular cancer, the cancer cells can spread to the surrounding tissue, including the cells that produce sperm. This can result in a decrease in sperm production or a complete lack of it. Additionally, the cancer cells themselves can interfere with sperm production and quality.
How is Testicular Cancer Treated?
Testicular cancer is usually treated with surgery to remove the affected testicle, chemotherapy, and/or radiation. During surgery, the doctor will assess the extent of the cancer and determine if any other areas of the reproductive system need to be treated. In some cases, fertility preservation techniques may be used to preserve a man's sperm before the cancer is treated.
Can Testicular Cancer Affect Fertility?
Testicular cancer can affect fertility. As mentioned above, the cancer cells can spread to the surrounding tissues, including the cells that produce sperm. This can result in a decrease in sperm production or a complete lack of it. Additionally, the treatments for testicular cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can also affect fertility.
Can Fertility Be Restored After Testicular Cancer?
In some cases, fertility can be restored after testicular cancer. If the cancer cells have not spread to other areas of the reproductive system, it may be possible to preserve the sperm before the cancer is treated. Additionally, fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may also be used to restore fertility after testicular cancer.