Prostate problems are common in older men. About 1 out of 3 men older than 50 years will suffer with an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). By the age of 85 years, it will affect 90% of men. It is not the only type of prostate problem that will affect a man, especially as he gets older, but it is the most common by far. An inflamed prostate known as prostatitis is also a fairly common occurrence but is more frequent in a man with BPH. And prostate cancer is among the most common types of cancer in men.

While prostatitis and prostate cancer needs definitive medical treatment, an enlarged prostate is often managed conservatively. Most men have to learn to live with the problem. It is only when an enlarged prostate is causing severe symptoms that treatment is considered, or the prostate is even surgically removed. So what does living with prostate irritation, and specifically an enlarged prostate entail?

continue reading Tips for Living With A Large Prostate

What is Luteinizing Hormone Deficiency?

A deficiency of luteinizing hormone has pronounced effects on human reproduction. In order to understand the consequences of a deficiency of luteinizing hormone, it is important to first understand the effect of this hormone in the human body. Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by pituitary gland. Luteinizing hormone is important for reproduction in both males and females. In women, luteinizing hormone maintains the menstrual cycle and ovulation (release of an egg cell from the ovary). In men, luteinizing hormone stimulates the production of another hormone called testosterone. Testosterone is important for sperm production.

continue reading Luteinizing Hormone Deficiency

What is balanitis?

Balanitis is the medical term for inflammation of the glans penis, also referred to as the head of the penis or tip of the penis. The inflammation often involves the foreskin (prepuce) in uncircumcised men in which case it is known as balanoposthitis. If the foreskin alone is inflamed then it is known as posthitis. However, these conditions are largely similar and is often discussed together. These are common conditions in males and can affect any age group. Balanitis is more common in boys and men who have not been circumcised but does not warrant the need for a circumcision as a preventative measure. Most cases are due to infections and poor personal hygiene is a major risk factor. It is not a life threatening condition but can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

The head of the penis (glans penis) is a mucous membrane and lacks the keratinized protection of skin. The foreskin covers the glans penis, thereby protecting it to some degree, and allows for moisture of the membrane to be retained. Circumcised males, on the other hand, do not have this level of protection and the glans penis is constantly dry. Despite the protection from the foreskin, the penile head is still exposed and in fact the foreskin can contribute to infections of this area. Therefore circumcised males, although having a drier glans penis, are less prone to balanitis.

continue reading Balanitis – Inflammation of Penis Head, Swollen Penile Tip

What is sexual health?

According to the World Health Organization, sexual health is a state of physical, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality. It requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. This applies to both males and females.

With regards to men, a more simplified definition is that sexual health is about being able to participate and enjoy in sexual acts with a partner in a manner that is fulfilling to both consenting parties. It is large subject that encompasses the physiological, psychological and social aspects of sexuality and sexual activity. For the purposes of this article, the focus will be largely on the physiological component of the male sexual act.

continue reading Male Sexual Health and the Sexual Act in Men

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence, is any difficulty or inability to attain an erection or maintain it for a period of time that allows for sexual activity. The term is often used quite cautiously by men but accounts for varying degrees of disturbances with the penile erection. It is extremely common in males over the age of 70 years but is still significantly prevalent in men over the age of 40 years. Erectile dysfunction is not a once off occurrence as men may sometimes have a problem achieving and maintaining an erection for any number of reasons without there being any underlying pathology. However, repeated episodes of dysfunction need to be investigated and treated accordingly.

About 80% of ED cases are due to physical causes and often related to underlying chronic conditions while 20% are related to psychological causes. Erectile dysfunction may be complete, mild or moderate indicating the degree of inability to achieve or sustain an erection. While reduced sexual desire is sometimes a feature of ED, a loss of libido and problems with orgasm (ejaculation) should be considered separately as different sexual health disorders. It may, however, co-exist with erectile dysfunction.

continue reading Erectile Dysfunction – Normal Erection Process, Causes, Symptoms