Have you ever been asked by a father or a relative to visit an andrology specialist? Many people are still unfamiliar with andrology specialists. In fact, this field of medicine plays a crucial role in addressing male reproductive issues. So, when should one visit an andrology specialist? What issues does an andrologist handle? Let’s dive into the information below.
What is an Andrology Specialist?
Andrology comes from the Greek language, consisting of andro meaning man and logos meaning knowledge. Andrology is a branch of medicine that focuses on addressing issues related to the male reproductive system.
An andrology specialist specifically handles conditions related to the anatomy, physiology, and health of the male reproductive system. It’s important to note that andrology specialists have the title Sp.And after their name.
In practice, an andrologist may work in collaboration with obstetricians and gynecologists (OBGYNs) to assist patients undergoing fertility treatments.
The field of andrology is also closely related to urological issues in men. However, what is the difference between an andrologist and a urologist?
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What Conditions Does an Andrology Specialist Handle?
Not only men with fertility issues, but also those with problems related to the penis and urogenital system may seek an andrology consultation. This is because andrologists are specialized in handling conditions related to the anatomical and physiological aspects of male health.
Some of the issues handled by andrologists include:
1. Infertility
Infertility is not only a condition that affects women, but also men. Male factors contribute to 30–50% of fertility problems. Some conditions affecting male infertility include low sperm count, abnormal sperm shape, and poor sperm motility. One common test to evaluate fertility is a sperm analysis.
2. Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is a sexual disorder in men, characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection.
3. Penis and Testicular Issues
Conditions related to the penis and testicles handled by andrologists include varicocele, Peyronie’s disease, balanitis, trauma, and testicular torsion. The andrologist will provide appropriate treatment and management. However, if surgery is required, a urologist will handle the procedure.
4. Urogenital or Genitourinary Disorders
These issues relate to both the reproductive and urinary systems in men, including bladder diseases and prostate conditions.
5. Hormonal Imbalances
One of the hormonal disorders in men includes imbalances such as hormone deficiencies or excesses. Consulting an andrologist can help identify the causes and provide appropriate treatment.
What is the Difference Between an Andrologist and a Urologist?
Although both andrology and urology deal with reproductive issues, they have different areas of expertise. While andrology focuses on male reproductive system problems, urology specifically addresses the urinary tract and reproductive system issues in both men and women.
Some health conditions treated by urologists include prostate disorders, kidney diseases (such as kidney stones or kidney failure), erectile dysfunction, urinary tract infections, incontinence, and prolapse in women.
What Competencies Does an Andrologist Have?
With specialized knowledge of the male reproductive system, an andrologist has the competence to perform various medical procedures. There are several procedures and medical actions that an andrologist can carry out:
Semen and sperm analysis
Cryopreservation or methods used to store and freeze sperm
Treatments to assist in the fertilization process
Hormone therapy
In vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures
Male contraception
When Should You Visit an Andrology Specialist?
Perhaps you are wondering when to visit an andrology specialist. You should consult with an andrologist if:
A man is concerned about fertility issues after struggling to conceive despite regular, unprotected sexual intercourse with his partner
There is pain or a burning sensation at the tip of the penis, often accompanied by white discharge. This could be a sign of balanitis (infection of the penis head) or a sexually transmitted disease
Abnormal penis shape, such as a bent penis, which can result from Peyronie’s disease or a penile injury
Experiencing premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction
Pain in the testicles caused by testicular torsion, a condition in which the testicles twist, disrupting blood and oxygen flow. In certain cases, surgery may be needed, and this will be handled by a urologist
The scrotum feels sore or heavy. This may be a sign of varicocele, a condition involving enlarged veins in the testicles. This condition may also require surgery, which would be managed by a urologist
Conclusion
Visiting an andrology specialist is not only for men facing fertility issues but also for those experiencing symptoms or problems with the reproductive system. Regular reproductive health check-ups are also important to understand your overall reproductive health.
Mulawkar, P. M., Maheshwari, P. N., Agrawal, S. G. Clinical Andrologists: Do We Really Need Them in the Era of ART? J Hum Reprod Sci. Apr-Jun 2021;14(2):105-112.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34316224/
American Society of Andrology. Handbook of Andrology – Second Edition. file:///C:/Users/user/Downloads/Health%20Careers%20-%20Reproductive%20science%20and%20andrology%20-%202019-01-02.pdf
