Orchiectomy — also known as orchidectomy — is the scientific term for the surgical removal of a testicle. It is usually performed to treat and confirm a diagnosis of testicular cancer, though it may be done for other reasons.

If you’ve been told that you need this procedure, you might have some concerns. Does an orchiectomy hurt? How will it change the way your body looks and functions? Will you still be able to have sex and father...

As a retired physician, I have several advantages over the average layperson. First, I can understand the medical jargon used by other doctors. Second, my specialty is radiation oncology, so I’m very familiar with both cancer and its treatment. And third, I know how to be my own advocate in medical situations.

But I’m also a six-time cancer survivor. Here are some things I’ve learned as a patient that might be useful to anyone...