Personalized Care for Sexual Health
MarinHealth urologists treat the entire male reproductive system, including the prostate, scrotum, testes and penis, and offer highly specialized care for a broad range of sexual health conditions. In many ways, urology can be viewed as a gateway to a man’s total health, as urologic issues may be connected to other medical conditions. For example, a common problem like erectile dysfunction (ED), may in fact be linked to hypertension, elevated cholesterol, or even type 2 diabetes.
MarinHealth urologists conduct a thorough assessment of a patient’s overall health, and confer with other specialists as needed. If we do refer to one of the partnering specialists in our network, we ensure the transition is smooth and stay in close contact to collaborate on your care. Should hospital services be needed, we provide seamless access to leading-edge technology and treatments at MarinHealth Medical Center.
Androgen deficiency (“Low T”)
Androgen deficiency, also known as low testosterone, “Low T,”
or Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TD), means the body has low levels
of male sex hormones, especially testosterone. Caused by problems with
the testes, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland, symptoms of androgen deficiency
can include decreased libido, lethargy, and diminished feeling of well
being. Our urologists treat androgen deficiency with testosterone replacement
therapy, which can be accomplished through topical and injectable agents.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve and maintain an erection
firm enough for sexual intercourse. MarinHealth urologists offer a variety
of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) treatments including oral medication, injection
therapy, vacuum device therapy, and penile surgery (implants, inflatable
penile prostheses, and shock-wave therapy).
(Watch, as Robert Chan, M.D. describes the various treatment options for ED)
Infertility
According to the National Institutes of Health, one third of infertility
cases are due to male reproductive issues, one third are from female reproductive
issues, and one third are caused by problems with both partners. Because
so many different medical or physiological conditions can lead to fertility
problems, both partners must be carefully evaluated.
We perform a thorough evaluation of a man’s fertility, including:
- Looking for signs of hormone deficiency
- Compiling a thorough health history, including childhood diseases such as mumps, injuries to the testicles or penis, and recent high fevers
- A physical exam to look for an infection, hernia, or varicocele – enlarged, twisted veins in the scrotum that can impact fertility
- A semen analysis to assess the quality and amount of sperm
Treatment for male infertility depends on the diagnosis. Surgery may be required to repair varicoceles, abnormalities or damage to the reproductive organs. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or the use of a sperm donor may be considered. Medication can be prescribed to treat hormone imbalances and erectile dysfunction.
Premature Ejaculation
If premature ejaculation, also known as early ejaculation, rapid ejaculation,
or premature climax is happening frequently or causing problems in your
relationships, MarinHealth urologists can help. Treatments may include
topical anesthetics, medications, or behavioral techniques.
Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease is a noncancerous condition in which scar tissue
forms under the skin of the penis, which can cause the penis to bend or
lose length or girth, and can sometimes be painful. We offer both surgical
and nonsurgical treatments.
Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversal
A vasectomy is a minor operation that prevents pregnancy by blocking semen
from entering your semen. This small procedure is nearly 100% effective,
and is conducted in our MarinHealth Urology clinics under local anesthesia.
If you’ve had a vasectomy but now want to have children, our urologists
can also perform surgery to reverse the procedure.
