Removing just one testicle will usually have very little (or no) effect on a person’s sex life. However, some men might have feelings of low self esteem because of the changes in how their body looks (their body image). This might affect their sexuality. In a small number of cases there may be changes in the male hormone testosterone that can also have an impact on a person’s sex life.

When one testicle is removed the remaining testicle can usually keep up a normal level of testosterone. Sometimes, however, men who develop testicular cancer may have testicles which aren’t working properly and are only producing small amounts of male hormone. In this situation the removal of one testicle may mean that the testicle left behind can’t produce enough testosterone and the levels may fall sufficiently to cause some problems. Also, very occasionally, there may be cancer in both testicles and both will have to be removed which will lead to a fall in testosterone to an abnormally low level.

The effect of testosterone on sexual feelings is variable. Many men with very low levels of testosterone can still have normal erections, normal sexual excitement and a virtually normal sex life. Others may find that they do lose interest in sex (loss of libido) or have problems with getting erections or becoming sexually excited.

Also, some men with very low levels of testosterone find that their mood is low and they may become depressed. This can sometimes interfere with their sex life, leading to a loss of interest and becoming unable to be aroused or get erections.

These problems with reduced sexual feelings and sexual activity usually only happen if the level of testosterone is very low or if the hormone is completely absent.

So, for most men with testicular cancer having one testicle removed won’t affect their sex life but occasionally there can be problems. If you do develop problems let your specialist know. They can provide support and advise whether a male form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), might help. HRT can often help to restore a normal sex life.