Your sexual and reproductive health are an important part of your overall well-being across the lifespan. Sexual or reproductive health issues can affect anyone, and sometimes they may be associated with an underlying health condition, such as diabetes or heart disease. Whether you have a concern about sexual functioning or want to pursue a procedure like a vasectomy, our team of urologists are here to support you.
We treat a variety of conditions and concerns affecting your sexual and reproductive health, such as:
- Birth control and fertility. Our urologists can talk with you about whether a vasectomy — a procedure that prevents sperm from leaving the body during ejaculation — may be a good option for you if you’re looking to prevent pregnancy. While a vasectomy is intended as a permanent form of birth control for men, the procedure can be undone through a vasectomy reversal.
- Buried penis. This condition occurs when the penis is partially or completely obscured by surrounding tissue of the abdomen or scrotum. Buried penis can be present at birth or it can develop in adulthood. Treatment of this condition typically includes surgery.
- Erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction refers to the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is sufficient for sex. This condition can have both psychological and physical causes.
- Low testosterone. Insufficient levels of the hormone testosterone can lead to a variety of symptoms and health issues such as low sex drive, mood changes and fatigue, among others.
- Peyronie’s disease. This condition occurs when abnormal layers of scar tissue form under the skin of the penis, causing it to bend or curve. Likely caused by mild trauma to the penis, Peyronie’s disease may result in painful erections or erectile dysfunction.
- Priapism. Priapism refers to a prolonged and often painful erection that lasts for an extended period and is unrelated to sexual arousal. There are different types of priapism — some may require immediate treatment while others do not.
- Prostate problems. The prostate, a male reproductive gland situated below the bladder, plays an important role in your sexual health. Problems with the prostate, such as prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can be associated with erectile dysfunction or other sexual health concerns.
- Testicular torsion. Testicular torsion is a medical emergency where the cord that supplies blood to the scrotum twists, cutting off blood supply to the testicles (housed inside the scrotum). Typically, testicular torsion requires surgery.
- Varicocele. A varicocele refers to the enlargement of veins within the scrotum (similar to varicose veins). This condition can lead to discomfort and potential fertility issues if not treated.
Diagnosing and treating sexual and reproductive concerns
Your urologist will review your medical history, perform a physical examination and may request a combination of tests, including bloodwork or medical imaging, to evaluate your situation.
Treatment varies according to your particular diagnosis or goals for care, but may include medications, surgery, lifestyle changes or other approaches. Your urology care team will work closely with you to recommend treatment options that fit your specific needs and goals and support your long-term health.