Introduction:
Testicular cancer is a relatively rare form of cancer that affects the testicles, the male reproductive organs that produce sperm and testosterone. It’s the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35, but it can also affect older men. Treatment for testicular cancer can affect fertility, which can be a concern for men who want to have children in the future.
How Testicular Cancer Affects Fertility:
Treatment for testicular cancer can affect fertility in a number of ways.
Surgery to remove one or both testicles, known as a radical orchiectomy, can reduce the amount of sperm produced by the remaining testicle.
Radiation therapy, which is sometimes used to treat testicular cancer, can damage the cells that produce sperm, leading to infertility.
Chemotherapy, which is also commonly used to treat testicular cancer, can affect the quality and quantity of sperm, sometimes leading to temporary or permanent infertility.
Options for Preserving Fertility:
For men who want to preserve their fertility, there are several options available. One option is sperm banking, where a man’s sperm is collected and frozen for future use. This can be done before treatment for testicular cancer begins. Another option is testicular sperm extraction (TESE), where sperm is extracted directly from the testicles. This can be done before or after treatment for testicular cancer, depending on the individual’s circumstances.
In some cases, fertility can be restored after treatment for testicular cancer. In cases where one testicle has been removed, the remaining testicle may be able to produce enough sperm for fertilization. In cases where both testicles have been removed or where treatment has caused permanent infertility, in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be an option. This involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside of the body and then transferring the resulting embryo to the uterus.
Conclusion:
Testicular cancer can affect fertility, but there are options available for men who want to preserve their fertility. Sperm banking and testicular sperm extraction are two options for preserving fertility before or after treatment for testicular cancer. In some cases, fertility can be restored after treatment. It’s important for men with testicular cancer to discuss their options for preserving fertility, as well as any potential risks or complications associated with these options.
Author: Neil A Haldar MBBS MD FRCS
Consultant Urological Surgeon
The Pelvic Specialists