The actual operation of an orchidectomy (removing one of the testicles) is quite simple and recovery following surgery is usually very rapid. Apart from some temporary soreness for a week or two in the groin area (where the cut for the operation is made) there should be no physical problems afterwards. It is advisable to take it easy for 4 – 6 weeks following surgery.

The remaining testicle will be able to make all the hormones needed to maintain your masculinity and so there will be no real physical change other than the loss of the one testicle (and if this is a concern then it is often possible to have an artificial testis - a prosthesis - inserted to replace it).

These days, as a result of modern methods of treatment, the great majority of men who develop a testicular cancer are completely cured. This means it is possible to be very positive about things from the moment the cancer is first discovered. Psychological studies looking at men who have had testicular cancer show that most of them actually have a more positive view of life following their treatment than they did before.

But about 1 in 5 men who have treatment for testicular cancer do develop psychological symptoms, like anxiety and depression. These can be due to a number of different things. There may be sexual problems - these can include a reduced interest in sex, difficulty in getting erections, poor quality orgasms or worries about fertility. Or there may be social problems - these might be financial difficulties due to time off work for treatment (sometimes even losing a job) or strain in a marriage or partnership due to the cancer and its treatment.

These problems are more likely when very intensive and quite prolonged treatment with chemotherapy is needed. If psychological symptoms do develop then, provided that the medical team know about them, a lot can be done to help.

But overall it is important to remember that the great majority of men who have a testicular cancer will go on to lead a normal life after treatment.