Varicocele is a common condition where veins within the scrotum become enlarged, similar to varicose veins in the leg. It often causes no symptoms, but can sometimes lead to a dull ache, a feeling of heaviness, or contribute to male infertility. Treatment, if necessary, may involve observation, pain management, or minor procedures, typically to address discomfort or fertility concerns.

Varicocele

Varicocele overview (JAMA 2020)

Varicocele overview (EAU)

Varicocele overview (JAMA 2018)

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Men's Health focuses on comprehensive well-being unique to men, covering physical, mental, and sexual health concerns. This includes proactively managing conditions like heart disease, prostate issues, and mental health. Regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices are crucial for prevention and early care, empowering men to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Men's Health

After surgery, you'll receive vital instructions designed for your safe and effective recovery. These guidelines cover essential areas like medication, wound care, activity levels, and nutrition to help manage discomfort and prevent complications. Following them closely is crucial for optimal healing and a smooth return to your daily life.

After Surgery Instructions

A penile implant (penile prosthesis) is a medical device surgically placed to treat severe erectile dysfunction when other treatments are ineffective. It allows a man to achieve an erection, helping to restore sexual function and improve quality of life.

Penile Implant (Penile Prosthesis, IPP)

Urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, due to scar tissue. This scarring can make urination difficult, causing a weak stream, straining, or frequent infections. It often stems from injury, infection, or medical procedures and is managed with procedures to widen the urethra or surgery.

Urethral Stricture (Scarring)

Urine leakage (incontinence) in men is the unintentional passing of urine. This common issue can result from weakened pelvic floor muscles, prostate changes, or nerve issues. It's often manageable through lifestyle adjustments, exercises, and various medical approaches, helping improve daily comfort and confidence.

Urine Leakage in Men (Incontinence)

Peyronie's disease involves scar tissue forming inside the penis, leading to a noticeable bend, pain, lumps, shortening, or erectile difficulties. It's often linked to injury or genetics. While the curvature may stabilize, various treatments, from medications to surgery, can help manage symptoms and improve function, enhancing quality of life. Consulting a healthcare provider is key for personalized care.

Peyronie's Disease (Curvature or bend of the Penis)

Urethral reconstruction (urethroplasty) is surgery to repair or rebuild the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. This procedure treats narrowings (strictures) often caused by injury, infection, or inflammation, which can lead to symptoms like difficulty urinating, weak stream, or frequent infections. The goal is to restore normal urine flow and improve quality of life.

Urethral Reconstruction (Urethroplasty)

ProACT (Adjustable Continence Therapy) is a treatment for men with stress urinary incontinence, often after prostate surgery, who experience urine leaks during activities like coughing or lifting. It involves surgically placing small, adjustable balloons to gently compress the urethra, helping restore bladder control and improve daily life.

ProACT (Adjustable Continence Therapy) for men

An Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS) is an implanted device that treats severe urinary incontinence, often after prostate surgery or other causes. It helps restore bladder control by mimicking a natural sphincter. Patients operate a small pump to allow urination, significantly improving quality of life and enabling participation in daily activities.

Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS)

A male urethral sling is a surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence in men, typically after prostate surgery. It involves implanting a supportive mesh or tissue to lift and compress the urethra, helping to prevent urine leakage during activities like coughing or lifting, thereby improving bladder control and daily life.

Male Urethral Sling

A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the tube (urethra) that carries urine out of the body, often causing difficulty urinating, a weak stream, or infections. This condition can result from injury, inflammation, or prior medical procedures. Treatment options aim to widen the urethra, and Optilume is a drug-coated balloon procedure specifically designed to help keep the passage open.

Optilume for Urethral  Stricture (Drug Coated Balloon)

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is when a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. It's common and can stem from stress, certain health conditions like diabetes or heart disease, or lifestyle choices such as smoking. Effective help is available through lifestyle changes, medications, or other treatments. Talk to your doctor to understand your options.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Testosterone (low T) deficiency means your body isn't making enough of this key hormone. Symptoms can include fatigue, reduced sex drive, and mood changes. Causes range from aging to underlying medical conditions. Management often involves medical approaches and lifestyle adjustments. If concerned, speak with your healthcare provider.

Testosterone (T) Deficiency

Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition causing a sudden, strong urge to urinate, often leading to frequent bathroom trips day and night, and sometimes accidental leakage. This occurs when the bladder muscles contract involuntarily. Lifestyle adjustments like managing fluid intake and diet, along with bladder training and various medications, can effectively help manage symptoms and improve daily life.

Overactive Bladder

Vasectomy is a highly effective, permanent form of male birth control. It's a minor surgical procedure that prevents sperm from reaching the semen, thus preventing pregnancy. This procedure does not affect sex drive, hormone levels, or ejaculation volume, offering couples peace of mind about family planning.

Vasectomy

Learning about a medical condition helps you understand its common signs, potential causes, and general management approaches. Healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can often support overall well-being and treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and care.

General information

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a common, non-cancerous condition in aging men. It often leads to urination symptoms like increased frequency, urgency, or a weak stream, as the enlarged gland can press on the urethra. While common, effective treatments and lifestyle adjustments can help manage these symptoms.

BPH, Enlarged Prostate and Urination Symptoms

Scrotal conditions involve various issues affecting the scrotum, the protective sac containing the testicles, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, or lumps. These can stem from infections, injuries, or fluid accumulation. While some may resolve with observation or medication, others might require surgery; prompt medical evaluation is always recommended for proper care.

Scrotal Conditions

Rezum is a minimally invasive treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition where an enlarged prostate causes bothersome urinary symptoms like frequent urination or a weak stream. This procedure uses targeted water vapor to shrink excess prostate tissue, aiming to improve urine flow and relieve symptoms, helping men regain comfort and quality of life.

Rezum

Blood in the semen, known as hematospermia, is seeing reddish or brown discoloration in your ejaculate. While often temporary and harmless, possibly due to inflammation, infection, or recent procedures, it can rarely signal underlying issues like prostate concerns. It frequently resolves on its own, but if persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, seeking medical evaluation is recommended.

Blood in the semen (Hematospermia)

UPJ and Ureteral Obstruction describes a blockage in the urinary tract, either where the kidney meets its draining tube (ureteropelvic junction, or UPJ) or along the ureter itself. This prevents urine from flowing normally, potentially causing pain, infection, or kidney swelling. Causes can be congenital or due to kidney stones, scar tissue, or other factors. Treatments focus on restoring urine flow to protect kidney health, often via simple procedures.

UPJ and Ureteral Obstruction

Stoma care is the essential daily management of a surgically created opening (stoma) on the abdomen, typically for waste elimination. It involves meticulous cleaning, proper pouching, and skin protection to prevent irritation and infection. With education and routine, people with stomas can maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

Stoma Care

Testicular and penile pain refers to discomfort in these sensitive areas, with causes ranging from infections, injury, and inflammation to more urgent conditions like torsion. Due to the diverse nature of causes, prompt medical evaluation is crucial to identify the issue and guide appropriate treatment, ensuring your well-being. Rest and supportive care often aid recovery.

Testicular and Penile Pain

Acquired buried penis (hidden penis) is a condition where the penis is tucked or covered by surrounding skin and fat, often due to significant weight gain, swelling, or prior surgery. This can cause challenges with hygiene, urination, and sexual activity. Management typically involves lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, and may include surgical options to restore its normal appearance and function, improving daily comfort.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION Acquired Buried Penis (Hidden Penis)

Genitalia conditions encompass a wide range of issues affecting the reproductive or urinary organs. Symptoms often include discomfort, changes in appearance, or unusual discharge. Causes can range from infections and hormonal imbalances to structural issues. Treatment approaches vary widely, from medication and hygiene practices to surgical interventions, always guided by a healthcare professional.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION Genitalia Conditions

Urologic cancer survivorship refers to life after active treatment for cancers affecting the urinary or male reproductive systems. It involves ongoing monitoring for recurrence and managing potential long-term effects like fatigue or urinary changes. Regular follow-up, healthy lifestyle choices, and emotional support are crucial for maintaining well-being.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION Urologic Cancer Survivorship

Lichen Sclerosus, when affecting the penis (Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans or BXO), is a chronic skin condition causing white, thinned skin, itching, pain, and sometimes scarring around the foreskin or glans. Its exact cause is unknown but may involve immune factors. Treatment often includes topical steroid creams to manage symptoms and prevent progression, with regular medical follow-ups important for ongoing care.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION Lichen Sclerosus (Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans BXO)

Recurrent Urinary Infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections of the urinary tract that return frequently. Symptoms often include painful urination, urgency, and lower belly discomfort. Causes vary, and management involves targeted treatment and lifestyle changes like good hydration and hygiene to help prevent future episodes.

Recurrent Urinary Infections

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland, a small organ in men. Symptoms often include pelvic pain, discomfort with urination, and urinary urgency. It can result from bacterial infections or other non-infectious causes. Treatment may involve medication, and lifestyle adjustments like adequate hydration and avoiding irritants can help manage symptoms. It's a common and often treatable condition.

Prostatitis

Nocturia is the medical term for waking up one or more times during the night specifically to urinate. This can be caused by various factors, including fluid intake patterns, medications, and underlying health conditions like bladder issues or diabetes. Managing nocturia often involves lifestyle adjustments, such as timing fluid intake, and addressing any contributing medical conditions with your healthcare provider.

Nocturia

Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in your kidneys, often causing severe back or side pain and sometimes blood in the urine. They can be linked to dehydration or diet. While painful, many pass with increased fluids, or medical procedures may be needed for larger stones. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for prevention.

Kidney Stones

Chronic pelvic pain is ongoing discomfort in your lower abdomen or pelvis, lasting six months or more. It can arise from various sources like gynecological conditions, bladder issues, or muscle problems, often impacting daily life. Management typically involves a combination of therapies and lifestyle adjustments, emphasizing the importance of working with healthcare providers to find relief.

Chronic Pelvic Pain

Nicolas Ortiz MD, FACS

UVA Urology

UVA Urology- Culpeper

Urologic Reconstruction, Men's Health and Prosthetics

Surgery (Urology)

Assistant Professor of Urology at UVA

Conditions affecting your bladder, kidneys, and how you urinate.

Bladder and Urinary Issues

Problems that stop urine from flowing freely from your kidneys, bladder, or tubes.

Blockages in the Urinary Tract

Prostate problems that affect men's urination and health.

Prostate Conditions

Conditions that cause pain, aches, soreness, or general unease.

Pain and discomfort

Problems with bladder, bowel, pain, or pelvic organ support.

Pelvic Floor & Pelvic Health

Conditions that don't fit into other main groups. A mixed collection of health issues.

Other

Everyday health, wellness tips, and understanding how to manage your care.

General Health & Patient Education

Conditions affecting male and female reproductive organs and private areas.

Genital Conditions

Conditions affecting male organs, fertility, and sexual health.

Men's Reproductive Health

Conditions causing accidental urine leakage or loss of bladder control.

Urinary Incontinence

Conditions from hard, stone-like deposits in kidneys and urinary tract.

Conditions affecting your kidneys and the tubes that carry urine.

Kidney & Ureter Conditions

Health conditions affecting sex organs, fertility, & sexual well-being.

Sexual and Reproductive Health

Infections affecting your urinary tract, bladder, and private areas.

Urinary & Intimate Infections

Health issues impacting women's bodies and well-being, including reproductive health.

Women's Health

Cancer conditions affecting the bladder, the organ storing urine.

Bladder cancer

Bladder problems preventing normal urine flow, requiring a new way for urine to exit the body.

Urinary Diversion

Health issues treated by operations and care for healing.

Surgical and Post-Surgical Care

Conditions about getting pregnant, preventing it, and reproductive health.

Fertility and Family Planning

Medical procedures are planned steps healthcare professionals take to diagnose, treat, or manage various health conditions. These can include diagnostic tests like imaging, therapeutic interventions, or surgical operations, all aimed at improving your health.

Procedures

Conditions that doctors fix, remove, or repair using an operation.

Common Surgical Procedures

Diseases where body cells grow abnormally and can spread.

Cancer

Symptoms are changes in how you feel or how your body works, such as pain, fever, or fatigue. They are your body's way of signaling an underlying health condition. Understanding your symptoms helps healthcare providers identify the cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Nicolas Ortiz MD, FACS

Varicocele

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