Questions to Ask About Testicular Cancer

As you deal with testicular cancer and the process of treatment, you need to have honest, open discussions with your cancer care team. Ask any question, no matter how small it might seem.

Questions to ask after getting a diagnosis

• What kind of testicular cancer do I have?
• Are other tests or surgery needed to confirm this diagnosis?
• What stage is my cancer?
• Can you explain my pathology report to me? Could I have a copy?
• Should I get a second opinion before I start treatment?

Questions to ask about choosing a treatment and managing side effects

• What treatment options do I have?
• What clinical trials are available for me?
• What is the goal of each treatment? Is it to eliminate the cancer, help me feel better, or both?
• What are the possible side effects of each treatment option?
• How often do you treat people with testicular cancer?
• Who will be part of my health care team, and what does each member do?
• How will this treatment affect my daily life? Will I be able to work, exercise, and perform my usual activities?
• Could this treatment affect my sex life? If so, how and for how long?
• Could this treatment affect my ability to have children? If so, should I talk with a fertility specialist before cancer treatment begins?
• If I’m worried about managing the costs of cancer care, who can help me?
• How can I keep myself as healthy as possible during and after treatment?
• What support services are available to me? To my family?
• If I have questions or problems, who should I call?

Questions to ask about having surgery

• What type of surgery will I have? Will lymph nodes be removed?
• How experienced is the surgeon in this type of cancer?
• How long will the operation take?
• Can you describe what my recovery from surgery will be like?
• Who should I contact about any side effects I experience, and how soon?
• What are the possible long-term effects of having this surgery?

Questions to ask about having chemotherapy or immunotherapy

• What specific drugs are recommended?
• What is the goal of this treatment?
• How long will it take to give this treatment?
• Will I receive this treatment at a hospital or clinic or will I take it at home?
• What side effects can I expect during treatment?
• Who should I contact about any side effects I experience and how soon?
• What are the possible long-term or late effects of having this treatment?
• What can be done to prevent or relieve the side effects?

Questions to ask about having radiation therapy

• What type of treatment is recommended?
• What is the goal of this treatment?
• How long will it take to give this treatment?
• What side effects can I expect during treatment?
• Who should I contact about any side effects I experience and how soon?
• What are the possible long-term or late effects of having this treatment?
• What can be done to prevent or relieve the side effects?

Along with these examples, be sure to write down some of your own. Keep in mind, too, that doctors are not the only ones who can give you information. Other health care professionals, such as nurses and social workers, may have the answers to your questions. You can learn more about communicating with your health care team in The Doctor-Patient Relationship.