Infertility, Testosterone, and Erectile Dysfunction Services in Staten Island, NY
Infertility, low testosterone, and erectile dysfunction are common medical conditions in men. As common as these conditions are, they can be difficult to handle given the significant impact they may have on a person’s quality of life.
To address these concerns, Richmond University Medical Center provides comprehensive urology services. The physicians’ approach to these sensitive issues is applied through compassionate care tailored to meet each patient’s needs. Discover more about the medical services offered by the physicians at Richmond University Medical Center and the treatment options available to men on Staten Island, NY through the hospital’s Urology Services Center.
Urologic Conditions Treated at Richmond University Medical Center
At Richmond University Medical Center’s Urology Services Center, a team of experienced medical professionals is available to address the following conditions concerning the male reproductive system:
Low Testosterone
Testosterone is the male sex hormone produced in the testicles and is crucial to typical male sexual development and function. When testosterone levels are lower than normal, it is known as Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TD) or Low Testosterone (Low-T). The American Urological Association (AUA) defines low testosterone as a total testosterone level of less than 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
Low testosterone is common. About 2.1% of men, or about two men in every 100, have Low-T. As a result of testosterone levels naturally decreasing with age, the condition is much more common in older men. While as few as 1% of younger men have Low-T, 50% of men over 80 years old experience below-normal testosterone levels.
Common symptoms associated with lower-than-normal testosterone levels include:
- Fatigue
- Low sex drive
- Changes in mood and irritability
- Reduced lean muscle mass
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common condition impacting the male reproductive system. It is defined as the persistent or recurring inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection that is firm enough for sex. ED very often leads to low self-esteem, depression, and distress for the patient and their partner.
It is estimated that ED affects about 30 million men in the U.S. Furthermore, research shows that half of all men between the ages of 40 and 70 will have some degree of ED.
The condition can occur when:
- Blood flow in the penis is restricted
- Taking certain medications to treat other health concerns
- Nerve damage prevents signals from the brain to reach the penis
- Coping with a stressful or emotional event
Men who experience difficulties maintaining an erection should seek medical evaluation right away as it can point to a more serious illness. ED can be an early warning sign of atherosclerosis (hardening or blocked arteries), heart disease, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar from diabetes.
Male Infertility
Infertility is not a medical condition that concerns only women. Male infertility is a reproductive disease that prevents a man from fathering a child. In the United States, studies show that about 10–15% of men are infertile and are unable to complete conception with their partners.
Male infertility can be the result of several underlying health concerns, such as:
- Sperm disorders: The body’s inability to produce healthy sperm, or enough sperm. When sperm is immature, abnormally shaped, or unable to swim, infertility can occur.
- Structural concerns: A blockage in the genital tract stopping the flow of semen can result in male infertility. A blockage can be a birth defect, genetic, or the result of infection or inflammation from a sexually transmitted disease.
Other factors that can lead to male infertility include liver or kidney disease.
Male infertility can lead to many psychological and emotional symptoms, including:
- Depression
- Grief
- Feelings of failure or inadequacy
Diagnostic Process
To ensure patients receive the best quality of care and outlook, in-depth diagnostics are used to identify conditions concerning the male reproductive system. After conducting a thorough physical exam, physicians may request the following tests:
- Blood tests: Blood samples are used to check hormone levels, including testosterone, and other relevant biomarkers.
- Imaging: Detailed pictures assess the physical structures of the reproductive system and identify any underlying issues that may contribute to the condition.
Treatment Options
After diagnostics, the team quickly begins to craft personalized treatment plans for each patient. Treatment plans take into consideration the patient’s overall health, preferences, and treatment goals.
Treatment depends on the condition being addressed but can include one or a combination of the following options:
- Medications: Physicians may prescribe medication for ED or hormone therapy for low testosterone.
- Lifestyle changes: Improving nutritional intake, exercising more regularly, and managing stress can help to improve common conditions affecting the male reproductive system.
- Surgery: Surgery is reserved for structural issues contributing to infertility or ED.
- Advanced therapies: Penile implants or assisted reproductive technologies can help minimize the effects of certain male reproductive system issues.
Additional Care
Care at Richmond University Medical Center’s Urology Services Center goes beyond innovative treatments. Physicians understand the emotional toll Low-T, ED, and male infertility can have on a patient. To address the emotional and psychological aspects of these conditions, the team can recommend and refer patients to counseling services and support. Additionally, cosmetic services are available to treat issues like penile curvature and similar concerns.
Find Compassionate Care at Richmond University Medical Center
Male patients in Staten Island experiencing infertility, low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, or other issues regarding their reproductive system will receive comprehensive care at Richmond University Medical Center’s Urology Services Center. The center is located at 1200 South Avenue, Staten Island, NY. Contact us today to learn more about care services at Richmond University Medical Center or call 718-370-1400 to schedule an appointment.
