Many men put off seeing a doctor about fertility or sexual health because it feels awkward, or because they assume the problem lies with their partner. In reality, a male factor contributes in about half of couples who have difficulty conceiving, and erectile problems are often an early sign of conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. An andrologist is a urologist who specialises in male reproductive and sexual health. Here is when to see one.
See an andrologist if you have…
Difficulty conceiving
If you and your partner have been trying for 12 months without success, or for six months if your partner is over 35, both of you should be evaluated at the same time. Do not wait for your partner’s tests to finish first.
An abnormal semen analysis
Low sperm count (oligospermia), poor motility, abnormal shape, or no sperm at all (azoospermia) all need a specialist assessment to find the cause.
Erectile dysfunction
Trouble getting or keeping an erection on most occasions for more than a few weeks deserves a check-up, especially if you are over 40, diabetic, a smoker or have high blood pressure.
Premature ejaculation
This is one of the most common male sexual concerns, and effective behavioural and medical treatments are available.
Low libido, fatigue or low mood
These can be signs of low testosterone, which is easy to test with a morning blood sample.
Swelling, pain or veins in the scrotum
A varicocele, a bunch of enlarged veins in the scrotum, is a common, treatable cause of male infertility. Any new lump in the testis should be checked promptly.
What happens at the first visit
- A private conversation about your history, lifestyle and concerns
- A brief physical examination
- Tests such as semen analysis, hormone levels and scrotal Doppler ultrasound, as needed
Your partner is welcome to attend. Consultations are confidential and available in English, Hindi, Kannada and Bengali.
Treatments that work
- Lifestyle changes: stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, losing weight and avoiding heat to the groin (such as a laptop on the lap)
- Medicines for hormonal problems, infection and erectile dysfunction
- Microsurgical varicocelectomy to improve sperm quality
- Surgical sperm retrieval (PESA, TESA, micro-TESE) for azoospermia, used with IVF/ICSI
- Low-intensity shockwave therapy, injections or penile implants for selected men with ED
Read more on our andrology and male fertility page.
A word about online remedies
Unregulated “male power” supplements and online pills can contain hidden drugs and may interact dangerously with heart medicines. A proper evaluation finds the real cause, which may be something as simple as a vitamin deficiency or as important as undiagnosed diabetes.
Andrologist in Koramangala
Dr. Bivek Kumar, MCh Urology, FRSM, is a consultant urologist and andrologist with more than 18 years of experience. He sees patients at Superhealth Hospital, Salarpuria Tower 1, Marigowda Road, Koramangala (beside Nexus Mall), Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm. Call +91 90329 59964 for an appointment. Evening and Sunday consultations are available at Nelivigi Multispeciality Hospital, Bellandur.
This article is for general information and does not replace a consultation with your doctor.