|
The Birds, Bees, and Testicular Cancer |
|
Thursday, 26 August 2010 03:42 |
|
Here's a phrase no man wants to hear: "You have testicular cancer." That sentence also sends shivers down the spine of a guy's parents, friends, relatives and significant others.
The first questions should ALWAYS be, "Did you get it early?" "Can the cancer be treated?" and "Will I be OK?" However, when testicular cancer is involved, a doctor will ALSO hear, "Will I be able to be a father?" or, "Will I still be able to "perform" in the bedroom?"
Therefore, this week's blog topic deals with the topic we men are inevitably drawn to: SEX-in this case, as it pertains to the number one cancer in men ages 15-40. I encourage everyone to read this, and if TC has impacted your life or those you care about, by all means, feel free to share. The Good Book aside for a moment, we at The Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation absolutely covet your input and comments!
If you're diagnosed with testicular cancer (or any other illness) the main thing above all else-and we hammer it home on this blog and on this website-is that TC be diagnosed EARLY and treated RIGHT AWAY. We want you around for a long time. With a better than 95% survival rate, there is NO reason for a man to die as a result of this disease.
At the same time, sex is a topic that matters to guys, whether we care to admit it or not. Here are a few things to keep in mind, starting with some good news: First, testicular cancer is NOT contagious! You cannot pass it on to anyone else through sexual conduct. Any thinking to the contrary is as useful as a guy thinking he'll go blind if he "uses his hands too often." ‘Nuff said.
Next: 99% of testicular cancer is centered on one testicle. If you lose one of the crown jewels through surgery, the other one should be able to "pick up the slack" in terms of generating sperm to get the job done. Of course, this is assuming successful treatment and recovery. You'll want to discuss testosterone treatments with your MD anyway. Low levels of testosterone can cause mood swings and a lack of energy in otherwise healthy men. But one puppy is usually plenty to keep you on the track of procreation. Eventually, you should be back to normal.
If surgery means removing lymph nodes, there is a good chance that a man will become sterile, since the lymph nodes in question control the nerves that cause ejaculation. Some surgeons can spare these nerves. Every case is unique. If fertility is important to you, make sure your doc knows. Medication can help guys recover fertility after this procedure, but there is absolutely no guarantee.
To be even more blunt: Removal of BOTH testicles WILL cause infertility, and the patient will have to work with his doctor to maintain healthy testosterone levels. I cannot sugarcoat this except to repeat that only about one percent of testicular cancer is found in both testicles-YET ANOTHER REASON early detection and treatment is so vital.
Meanwhile, chemotherapy and/or radiation will at least temporarily lessen sperm production. In heavy doses, infertility can happen. You may want to make a donation at a sperm bank before undergoing either of these (or any) treatment options. It's not a bad idea given that the TC survivor rate is so high and that most young men want to be a dad at some point in their lives.
It is STRONGLY suggested (In other words, don't be a moron) that you use "protection" when having sex during and just after chemotherapy treatments! Passing chemo drugs to your partner will not win you friends or influence people! Check with your MD before continuing intimate relations.
Bottom line: YOU are the first line of defense for your health and well being. I know testicular cancer and sex may not be easy issues to deal with. But your doctor (and make sure you have a damn good one) is a medical professional, not a prophet or mind reader.
www.seankimerling.org is chock full of resources and videos designed to educate men 15-40-AND those that love them- about the danger of TC-the most common cancer in that age group. The Internet can be a great tool to keep you in the know. Since we're talking about "the birds and the bees", The Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation implores you to "take advantage" of this website and other medical avenues-without fear of legal or moral repercussions! :D After all, your life is at stake! Stay healthy, and we await your feedback.
Bobby Taute joins seankimerling.org as a Contributing Blogger. Bobby spent 23 years at WPIX TV in New York, earning 4 Emmy Award nominations as a Sports Producer. In 2008 he created the station's sports blog, "Bobby vs. The World"-now known as "The Huddle." Like Sean a lifelong Mets fan, Bobby's media savvy and enthusiasm have proven invaluable to the success of the Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation.
Powered by Azrul's Jom Comment for Joomla!  |
