The doctor commonly called a “penis doctor” is a Urologist. This medical specialist focuses on the urinary tracts of both men and women, as well as the male reproductive system. Urologists diagnose and treat conditions affecting the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra, alongside male-specific organs like the penis, prostate, testes, and seminal vesicles. In some cases, a patient may be referred to an Andrologist, a subspecialty of urology dedicated solely to male reproductive health, sexual function, and male fertility. The Urologist serves as the primary point of contact for a broad range of male health concerns.
Scope of Practice for Urologists
Urologists are uniquely positioned to manage the full spectrum of male genitourinary health because their training bridges two interconnected organ systems. They are surgical specialists who address functional, structural, and oncological conditions related to the male reproductive tract and the urinary system. Their expertise covers complex issues that can affect the quality of life, such as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection, known as erectile dysfunction (ED).
Urologists treat structural concerns like Peyronie’s disease, which involves the development of scar tissue inside the penis causing a painful, curved erection. They manage infections such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) and epididymitis (inflammation of the coiled tube at the back of the testicle). Additionally, they are involved in the screening and treatment of cancers affecting the prostate, testicles, and penis.
The Urologist’s role extends to addressing issues of male fertility, including diagnosing and managing conditions like varicocele, an enlargement of veins within the scrotum that can affect sperm production. For conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, they offer both medical and surgical treatments to relieve urinary flow obstruction. They are often the first specialist men consult for symptoms such as blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, or chronic pain in the pelvic region.
Specialists for Specific Conditions
While the urologist is the general expert, other specialists may be involved depending on the specific nature of the problem. Andrology is a highly specialized field within urology that focuses exclusively on male fertility and sexual function. A patient dealing with complex male infertility or nuanced sexual dysfunction might be referred to an Andrologist for specific diagnostic testing and advanced treatment options.
Issues that primarily involve the skin of the genital area are often managed by a Dermatologist. Skin specialists treat inflammatory conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis) and lichen sclerosus, a chronic inflammatory disorder. Dermatologists also diagnose and treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that present with skin lesions, rashes, or warts.
When a penile or sexual health issue is rooted in an imbalance of body chemistry, an Endocrinologist may join the treatment team. These specialists focus on the endocrine system, which includes hormones like testosterone. Low testosterone, known as hypogonadism, can directly affect sexual desire and function, and the Endocrinologist’s expertise is required to manage hormone replacement therapy.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Consulting a specialist requires preparation to ensure the appointment is productive. A Primary Care Provider (PCP) can often conduct an initial assessment and provide a referral, which helps coordinate your overall care. Before your visit, document your symptoms, noting when they started, their severity, and any factors that seem to trigger or alleviate them.
Write down a complete list of all medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and any dietary supplements you take. Be ready to discuss your medical history, including chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, and any previous surgeries. Preparing a list of questions beforehand ensures you address all your concerns during the appointment time.
The most important aspect of preparation is a willingness to discuss sensitive topics openly and honestly with the specialist. Providing accurate details about sexual function, urinary habits, and pain is necessary for an accurate diagnosis. Being forthcoming allows the doctor to move quickly toward an effective treatment plan.