Ironwood Urology’s Blog

The most common problem for sexual function among men is erectile dysfunction (ED). The prevalence of this syndrome increases with age, with an estimated worldwide frequency of 16% and a higher percentage of 37% for men aged 70 to 75 years old. There is no one cause for ED, as there are a number of things that can interfere with normal sexual functioning. Understanding the prevalence and the reasons behind ED, men who are suffering with this disorder should not feel embarrassed. Instead, it is important to talk to your physician so that he or she can evaluate the reasons behind your problem, and recommend viable solutions to improve sexual performance and satisfaction.

Testicular cancer, which most frequently occurs between the ages of 15 and 35 is the most common cancer found in young men. However, 95% of all men who have been diagnosed survive the disease. In fact, even half of the men who receive a poor prognosis, are cured. Given the survivability of the illness, it is important that all men between the ages of 15 and 40 know the signs of testicular cancer; and understand the importance of performing self-examinations once a month. If an abnormality is discovered, a board-certified urologist will be able to run diagnostic tests to confirm if cancer is present, and to determine the severity of the illness. Treatment will then be recommended, based on the findings of these tests.

If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, you are not alone; it is the second most diagnosed cancer among men worldwide. However, even though the incidence is high, not everyone has the same disease. In fact, the cells associated with prostate cancer can range from a very slow-growing type, to cells that multiply rapidly and are very aggressive. This is why we cannot make a blanket statement regarding treatment options or prognosis. What you can expect after being diagnosed with prostate cancer relies on a number of factors, including your age, your general state of health, your prostate specific antigen (PSA) level, how the tumor is graded, and where the cancer cells are located. Discussing the details of your specific circumstances with your doctor will give you the most accurate information regarding what to expect after being diagnosed with prostate cancer, but here is some general information that may answer some of your questions.

Infertility is defined by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine as when a couple is unsuccessful at conceiving a baby (becoming pregnant) within a one-year period of having regular sexual intercourse without the use of birth control. It may come as a surprise, but infertility actually affects about 15 percent of couples trying to conceive.