Testicular cancer - Social support 

Testicular cancer can affect your daily life in various ways.

How men cope with diagnosis and with their treatment varies from person to person. There are several forms of support if you need it.

It can help to:

• Talk to your friends and family. They can be a powerful support system.
• Communicate with other people who are in the same situation.
• Know as much as possible about your condition.
  Do not try to do too much or overexert yourself.
• Make time for yourself.

Learn more at Cancer Research UK: living with testicular cancer.

Talking to people

As well as talking to friends and family, some men find it helpful to talk to other men who are experiencing or have experienced testicular cancer.

Healthtalkonline: testicular cancer is a collection of real stories from men who have experienced testicular cancer.

There is also a forum, where you can share you experience and talk to others.

Sex and relationships

You may be concerned about how testicular cancer and your treatment will affect your relationships, sex life, and fertility (ability to father children).

If you have one testicle removed because of testicular cancer, this should not affect your sex life or fertility.

If you have both testicles removed, it may be possible to bank sperm to use later if you want to have children. Testosterone supplementation can help to maintain your sexual function.

After any treatment for testicular cancer, you may find that you feel less like having sex. This is normal, and usually temporary.

Learn more at Cancer Research UK: your sex life and testicular cancer.

Money and finances

If you have to reduce or stop work because of your cancer, you may find it hard to cope financially. If you have cancer or you are caring for someone with cancer, you may be entitled to financial support:

• If you have a job but cannot work because of your illness, you are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay from your employer.
• If you don't have a job and cannot work because of your illness, you may be entitled to Employment and Support Allowance.
• If you are caring for someone with cancer, you may be entitled to Carer’s Allowance.

You may be eligible for other benefits if you have children living at home or if you have a low household income.

Find out early what help is available to you. Speak to the social worker at your hospital, who can give you the information you need.

Free prescriptions

People being treated for cancer are entitled to apply for an exemption certificate, giving them free prescriptions for all medication, including medicine for unrelated conditions.

The certificate is valid for five years and you can apply for it through your GP or cancer specialist.

Want to know more?

• Directgov: Benefits and financial support.
• Find your nearest Citizens Advice Bureau.