According to Dr. Mark Allen, a Plano, Texas urologist, many people will suffer from a urinary tract infection, or a UTI, at some point in their life. It’s one of the most common reasons why teenagers visit a doctor in a given year. If you have not suffered from this type of infection then count yourself among the blessed few. Urinary tract infections are among the most common infections found in adults and are most commonly caused by bacteria. Seeking a cure for a UTI once symptoms appear is necessary so that the infection does not turn in to a larger problem.

The urethra is part of the urinary tract and is the body part in men and women that eliminates liquid waste (urine) from our bodies. Because the urethra is located in the genitals of both men and women, it often comes into contact with fluids that can harbor bacteria. The bacterium that causes the majority of urinary tract infections is E. Coli. E. Coli is most commonly passed through the bowel, but can come into contact with the urethra during sex, or if a woman does not clean herself properly after using the restroom (wiping from the front to the back). Other common causes of urinary tract infections are condom use, diaphragm use, and certain contraceptive pills.

Occasionally a UTI will not be accompanied by symptoms, but when symptoms of a UTI present themselves they are similar to the following:

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• A burning sensation when urinating
• The feeling of being unable to empty your bladder
• Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
• Urine that appears cloudy
• Urine that appears bright pink or cola colored — a sign of blood in the urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain, in women
• Rectal pain, in men

Every time an adult has a UTI, they are at an increased risk of having another and with every recurring UTI the risk for another goes up. The most common reason why an adult may suffer from recurring UTI infections is that they do not follow the full course of antibiotics prescribed by their doctor. Other reasons may be related to bad hygiene, frequent sex, not drinking enough water, or a change in diet.

Occasionally, frequent urinary tract infections are part of a bigger issue. If you are suffering from frequent recurring UTI infections and ongoing symptoms of a UTI, you need to see your doctor. At times a UTI is unaccompanied by symptoms. When this happens the bacterium which causes the infection of the urethra has time to spread to the bladder, and then onto the kidneys. Infections of the bladder and the kidneys are more severe and require a different type of medication. If you are being treated for a UTI but it recurs time and again, you need to speak with your doctor about cystoscopy to observe the bladder and kidneys and eliminate the concern of a bigger issue. Another cause of recurrent infections is a urologic abnormality. If the urethra is obstructed by anything such as a catheter, kidney stone, growth etc, UTI is extremely common and may be a result of the obstruction.

Symptoms associated with an infection of the kidneys and/or bladder will be more severe than symptoms of a UTI.  They will include:

• Upper back and side (flank) pain
• High fever
• Shaking and chills
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pelvic pressure
• Lower abdomen discomfort
• Frequent, painful urination
• Blood in urine
• Burning with urination

If you have never suffered from a urinary tract infection, or if you have and want to prevent it from recurring, the following tips have proven to lessen the possibility of infection:

• Urinating shortly following sexual activity (Men and Women)
• Properly wiping after using the restroom (from the front to the back)
• Prompt removal of diaphragm or condom after sexual activity
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding materials that do not allow the genitals to breath

If you feel like you may be suffering from a urinary tract infection you may try a number of home remedies, but a rule of thumb is to see your doctor the moment you feel pain, discomfort, or have concerns.  The cure for a UTI is often an antibiotic.  In order for this cure for a UTI to be effective, the medicine should be taken according to the prescription and not stopped halfway through treatment.

Each year, more than half a million people will visit an ER with a painful kidney stone.  Dr. Mark Allen, a Plano, Texas urologist (http://northtexasurologist.com) was interviewed for this article to shed some light on kidney stones and treatment options that are available today. This Q and A was designed as an informative document to help in the awareness and treatment, and prevention of Kidney Stones.

This Kidney Stone represents the hard mass of crystals that formulate the stone

A kidney stone is a crystallized mass caught within the urinary tract. When the chemicals found in urine are not strong enough to dissolve the stones they cannot pass through and out of the urinary tract causing a blockage and extreme pain for the patient.  In many cases, the stones will eventually pass, but in other cases, medical treatment will be needed in order to break up or remove the stones.

Q: How common are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are relatively common. Approximately 7% of all women and 14% of all men will develop kidney stones. Once an individual has developed a kidney stone they have a 50% chance of recurring stones.

Q: What are the symptoms of kidney stones?

The most common symptoms associated with a kidney stone include pain in the back, and blood in the urine. But other symptoms may include: nausea, fever, and chills, as well as cramping, testicular pain and pain in the abdomen.  Pain associated in the abdomen area is the prominent symptom of a kidney stone. It is a very distinct pain. Once a person has a kidney stone for the first time, they can easily recognize the pain each time the condition reoccurs.

Q: Who gets kidney stones?

Caucasian men are at the highest risk of getting kidney stones. This risk increases greatly between the ages of 40 and 70. Women can also get kidney stones but are at a decreased risk. Women over the age of 50 will be at a higher risk.  It is extremely common for children to also get kidney stones.  There is an increase in the United States of children getting kidney stones; diet and food/liquid in-take are the primary causes as many kids do not drink enough water and are eating foods that are high in salt and sugar.

Q: What treatment for kidney stones are available?

Most commonly a patient should be able to pass the stones by increasing their intake of fluids, but if this does not prove beneficial there are other medical options to help a patient pass their stones. If a stone does not, in fact, pass on its own, the following treatments can be applied:

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL for kidney stones), the Ureteroscopy Procedure and Percutaneous Nepheostolithotomy.

• ESWL stands for Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy. ESWL for kidney stones is a high intensity acoustic pulse, sent from the outside of the body to the inside, used to break up the stone. Through the process the stones are broken down into smaller particles and can then be easily passed through the urinary stream. This is a non-invasive procedure that has time and time again proven productive. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy is one of the most frequently and widely used urological procedures to treat kidney stones. ESWL for kidney stones should be discussed with your urologist to see if it is the appropriate treatment for your specific kidney stone condition.

• Another minimally invasive procedure that is effective in eradicating kidney stones is a Ureteroscopy. During a Ureteroscopy procedure, incisions are not needed. Instead, a tiny scope is entered into the urethra and passed through to the bladder. If the stone is small it will gently be extracted through the end of the scope. If it is larger, then a laser may be required to dissolve the stone. The Ureteroscopy procedure varies according to the size of the stone and the severity of the pain.
  

  Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL for kidney stones) is a high intensity acoustic pulse, sent from the outside of the body to the inside, used to break up kidney stones.

• Finally, when all else kidney stone treatments have failed, a Percutaneous Nepheostolithotomy can be performed to remove a large kidney stone. This is treatment for kidney stones is a surgery performed in the hospital in which an incision is made in the back and then special instruments are used to enter the kidney removing the stones. A catheter is necessary to drain the bladder during recovery, until the incision has healed. This surgery is used for large kidney stones, or when a kidney stone has caused an infection.

Q: If I have a family history of kidney stones, does that mean I am likely to get them?

There is statistical evidence to suggest that kidney stones are genetic—but if they run in you family, it does not necessarily mean you will get them. Certain factors such as age, diet, lifestyle, smoking, etc. can make the occurrence more or less likely.

Q: If I’ve had kidney stones before, what can I do to prevent them from reoccurring?

Have a metabolic workup. A metabolic workup is a study of the factors that likely caused your kidney stones and will likely cause a reoccurrence. In this study the kidney stone, your diet, urine samples, and overall health are studied to determine the factors that will most likely cause another stone. This is of utmost importance. Statistics show that 70% of people who choose not to have a metabolic workup receive another stone in 5 to 10 years.

The severity of kidney stones varies from one person to another, but is always a plague to the recipient. If you believe you have a kidney stone, it is important to see your doctor immediately. You may be able to pass the stone yourself, but many options do exist for the treatment for kidney stones. The best way to prevent kidney stones is to maintain a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a Plano, Texas Urologist, assisted in this interview with *John, a patient of his North Texas urology practice.  (*Patient names have been changed for privacy reasons).

John was a newlywed in his late-twenties with an excellent career, a new home, a wife and many dreams. He and his wife had begun discussing the prospects of having a child, and had decided to begin and maintain a healthy lifestyle before they tried to conceive.

About a week into their new workout routine John realized that the soreness had died down from all parts of his body except for one. He still felt sore and had a swollen testicle. Concerned and uncomfortable he decided to see his physician who referred him to a urologist who ran a series of tests, including an ultrasound of his scrotum and a pelvic x-ray.  What the doctor found greatly surprised John. He had Testicular Cancer.  John had so many questions. He began with, “But I’m too young for cancer, how did this happen?”

The truth, is that testicular cancer is in fact most common in men between the ages of 15-35. White men are at the highest risk of getting this disease and while the exact cause is unknown, there are certain risk factors. The risk factors for getting testicular cancer include a history of testicular cancer, a history of an undescended testicle, a family history of the disease, HIV infections, and body size. Certain studies have indicated that taller, larger men at more at risk.

Testicular cancer is one of the most curable forms of cancer. This was very good news to John, and the more than 8,000 other men who are diagnosed with this disease each year. The risk of dying from testicular cancer is relatively low.  However, as with all cancers, it is important to catch it early so that treatment can be implemented.

Testicular cancer may not show any symptoms in the early stages. The most common symptoms that will appear will include a pain in the lower back and in the abdomen, a heavy feeling in the scrotum, a swollen testicle and/or a lump in one or both of the testicles. Most often, a lump is what signals the cancer. Many men also complain about pain and soreness in the testicular region.

As the Urologist did in John’s case, tests will be run to determine the stage of the cancer.  There are several stages to consider:

• Stage 1:  The cancer has not spread outside of the testicle.
• Stage 2:  The cancer has spread throughout the scrotum and into the lymph nodes in the lower abdomen.
• Stage 3:  The cancer has gone beyond the lymph nodes and could possibly spread to the liver, kidney, bladder or lungs.

Because John saw a doctor as soon as he realized something was not right, he was found to only be in Stage 1 of the cancer, and was able to receive treatment for testicular cancer and hopefully prevent any future cancer.  Treatment for testicular cancer includes:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation Therapy
• Surgical removal of a testicle, or both if necessary
• Removal of the infected lymph nodes

Today, John and his wife are the proud parents of two children and he recently made it to the 6-year cancer free mark.  John continues to support cancer awareness groups and urges everyone he knows to “know your body,” and that “prevention is the best cure.” John gets asked often how he was able to conceive two children after losing a testicle.   His urologist, Dr. Mark Allen, MD of Plano, Texas offers the following answer.

“When a testicle is removed, your sperm count only dwindles for a short period of time.  Eventually the other testicle will produce double-time, returning your sperm count to normal, and making your chances of conceiving naturally just as normal as the next guy. But if you are concerned about conceiving a child once you have beat your cancer, you should talk to your doctor about the options that are available. There are other methods and ways to conceive with your partner,” says Dr. Allen.

The surest way to beat testicular cancer is to be tested when you feel something is different; A swollen testicle, a lump or pain in the testicle region should be looked at by a professional. Survival rates have never fallen below 72%, this is due to early detection and new medical breakthroughs in treating the disease.

According to Dr. Mark Allen (972.612.8037), a urologist in Plano, Texas, “Erectile dysfunction is a problem common in men as they age. It’s a silent problem that doesn’t have to be kept silent. There is treatment for erectile dysfunction and men should explore all of their options before settling on living with a condition they believe is helpless.”

Erectile dysfunction is termed as the inability to obtain or maintain an erection as is necessary for sexual satisfaction, also called impotence. The severity of the dysfunction varies from one man to another. One man may be able to achieve but not maintain an erection while another may not be able to obtain an erection at all. The variety of severity, and under diagnoses due to a man’s embarrassment about the issue make it hard to establish just how common erectile dysfunction is. But keeping these variables in mind, doctors have still estimated that erectile dysfunction affects 30 million men in the United States.

It is possible for erectile dysfunction to affect a man at any age, but it is pretty uncommon among men less than 40 years of age and only 5% of the national average reflects men of this age group. At age 45-50 the statistic jumps to 15%. Erectile dysfunction affects 20% of men 50-55, and 50% of men between 70-80 years of age.

Erectile dysfunction is an issue that occurs commonly as men age, but there are a few medical factors that can cause it to become more severe, or to strike at an earlier age. Urologists state that factors such as lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, and smoking directly affect the onset and severity of erectile dysfunction.

Regardless of what can be done to ward off the occurrence of erectile dysfunction, in some cases it is inevitable. The first and most important step to battling this issue is to see your urologist. You may be in early enough stages to treat your impotence with medication. Urologists commonly prescribe medication such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis, which are taken orally and may help receive an erection.

If the stage of your impotence is beyond medication then you and your doctor may decide to talk about implant treatment for erectile dysfunction. For patients with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction there is an option to receive a penile prosthesis.

A penile prosthesis is surgically implanted in a careful surgery and has been proven to help a man regain his ability to achieve an erection. There are currently two types of penile prosthesis, the semi-rigid non-inflatable, and the inflatable. The semi-rigid is a series of flexible rods that are surgical implanted to support the penis. With these rods, the man is able to manually place the penis in the upward position for intercourse, or downward for daily activities.  The inflatable prosthesis is more complex, but also more successful. With an inflatable penile prosthesis, a pump filled with liquid is placed inside the scrotum. Then a reservoir is placed inside the penis. When a man is ready to receive an erection his simply squeezes the scrotum, and the liquid is transferred to the reservoir inside the penis which causes an erection. When the man is ready to deflate the erections he presses a release valve which returns the liquid to the pump.

Urologist Dr. Allen has a number of penile prosthesis’ to choose from. After careful consideration the decision is between the two of you to decide which option is the best for you. A few of his most commonly used prosthetics are:

AMS Spectra—This is a non-inflatable penis implant. It is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, single-use implant. It includes a pair of cylinders surgically inserted into the penis which is manually positioned by the male. It is easy to use by the male or the partner. It is totally concealed within the body, and is the easiest surgical option. Its general complaint is that it remains firm no matter the position it is placed in.

AMS Ambicor—A 2-Piece Inflatable penis implant. Consists of a pair of reservoirs implanted in the penis, and a single pump bulb implanted in the scrotum. The pump is compressed to receive an erection, and the erection is bent to deflate the prosthesis. It is totally concealed within the body, and is more natural when flaccid then the non-inflatable implant.

AMS 700 Series—A 3-piece inflatable penis implant available in a variety of sizes and models. It consists of a reservoir that is placed within the abdomen, a pump places inside the scrotum, and a pair of cylinders placed inside the penis. This prosthesis is favored among recipients because it expands the girth of the penis, and it feels most like a natural erection when compared with other implants. It is also favored because when flaccid, it looks and feels most natural.

As with all medical procedures, there are advantages and disadvantages to each of these procedures. Your urologist and yourself are the only ones who can decide which, if any of these procedures are right for. Talk to your doctor today, and look forward to feeling more confident.

I Have Low Testosterone, What Does That Mean?

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist with North Dallas Urology Associates (http://northtexasurologist.com, 972.612.8037), hears the frustrations and complaints from patients that enter his Plano, TX urology office.  A little probing, and it doesn’t take long for Dr. Allen to diagnose the problem:  Have you recently noticed changes to your physique? Are you struggling with finding the energy to get through your daily routine? Has your sexual desire and stamina reached all time lows? Have you recently noticed that your daily tasks have become difficult to complete and hard to focus on?

If your answers to these questions are yes, and you are a middle-aged man, you may be suffering from Low Testosterone. In many cases, having an open discussion with your doctor about your symptoms can lead to possible treatment options (testosterone replacement).

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is the male hormone that deciphers whether a fetus will have the reproductive organs of a male, or female. While it is the chromosomes of a fetus that decide the sex, it is Testosterone that builds male reproductive organs. Testosterone is released in large amounts in the body of a boy during his pubescent years, and provides him the ability to build muscle, deepen his voice, and creates his sexual desire. Throughout a man’s life it is the regular release of this male hormone that allows a man to maintain these masculine traits. After a male reaches 40 years of age his testosterone begins to decrease by about 3% a year, this is inevitable, and does not affect a man’s physique or lifestyle. An even larger loss of low testosterone in men, however, will cause undesirable side effects.

Low Testosterone in men only affects 1 in every 200 males under 60 years of age. But 20% of men 60 years of age and older suffer from a drastic decrease of these male hormones. Low Testosterone in men has been known to cause such symptoms as: anxiety and mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and a decreased ability to complete everyday intellectual tasks. A man suffering from Low Testosterone may notice weight gain around the lower abdomen or what is commonly referred to as the “beer gut.” When this weight is caused by Low Testosterone, and the male does not receive treatment, he may find it difficult to shed the pounds.

Perhaps the most common complaint among men suffering from Low Testosterone is erectile dysfunction, or the inability to receive and maintain an erection. The male testes produce testosterone, and when they produce a less than normal amount, the male is unable to receive an erection. It is also very common among men with Low Testosterone to complain of little or no sexual desire and/or sexual stamina. Though a loss of pride is not a direct symptom of Low Testosterone, it is no surprise that most men suffering from a loss of these male hormones suffer from this as well. In order to restore your pride, and achieve the successes of years passed, it is important to receive treatment to restore these male hormone levels.

What Causes Low Testosterone in Men?

While it is unavoidable that a man’s Testosterone will begin to decrease in his forties, there are a few things that cause lower than normal levels in men of all ages. Contributors to Low Testosterone are:

• Anti-Depressants/Anti-Psychotics
• Alcoholism
• Chemotherapy, Radiation treatments, and Cancer
• Disease and Illness
• Stress

The first step toward treating your low Testosterone levels is testing the hormones to see if this is indeed the problem. Is it low T? Talk to your doctor about a simple blood test that will provide him the information necessary to treat your Low Testosterone problem. If you would like to test your Testosterone from home, you may purchase a testing kit and do so.  If the test results prove that you are indeed suffering from Low Testosterone, do not be discouraged.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, of Plano, TX notes that low testosterone levels can be replaced through various types of testosterone replacement therapy. One such therapy is the insertion of testosterone pellets. According to Dr. Allen, “Low testosterone can be treated with the insertion of testosterone pellets. These small, compressed, Tic-Tac sized pellets are injected under the skin (most often in the buttock just below the waistline). It is a very easy procedure and leaves a very minimal scar. The dose varies according to blood levels and other factors. Most patients will see improvement in their symptoms within a few short weeks.”

Low Testosterone does not have to change your life. With the proper testosterone replacement treatment, and with the care of your physician, it is possible to replace these lost male hormones, and regain your pride, and a sense of normalcy once again. Discuss your options with your doctor and decide what would be the best solution for you.

Dr. Mark Allen MD, a north Texas urologist (http://northtexasurologist.com) with North Dallas Urology Associates, often finds himself discussing issues with women during their visits to his Plano, TX office surrounding pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic floor reconstruction.

Ask the average woman about female pelvic health concerns like urinary incontinence or fibroids and she’s likely to have at least a basic knowledge of these conditions. Ask her about pelvic organ prolapse and she may look back at you with a blank stare.  These are conditions that are quite common in women, especially after childbirth, where a considerable amount of pressure has been placed on the pelvic region, but yet are rarely discussed until symptoms increase and begin to interfere with normal daily routines.

More than 30 million women suffer from pelvic organ prolapse, which occurs when pelvic structures, such as the bladder, uterus or rectum, bulge or protrude into the vaginal wall. Most women will complain of discomfort in this region and will often experience vaginal pressure, abdominal pain, urinary incontinence, painful intercourse and a constant feeling that something has “fallen”.

“In the case of a prolapsed bladder, it is common in women who have given childbirth or with the natural aging process,” says Dr. Allen. “The front wall of the vagina supports the bladder. After childbirth, or when a woman ages, this wall will naturally loosen and weaken. In some case, it will prolapse which means it is no longer supported and descends into the vagina. The result of a prolapsed bladder, are problems such as urinary difficulties and stress incontinence. In the case of other organs, the same incidences can occur.”

“When a woman experiences pelvic organ prolapse for the first time, it creates stress and confusion. The pain associated with prolapse is considerable,” says Dr. Allen.  “Often, women will refrain from exercise, sexual intercourse and will limit their overall physical activity because of the condition and the discomfort it causes. Many are afraid to use the restroom because it exasperates the prolapse.”

Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse can occur in several ways. Vaginal vault prolapse can occur alone or along with a cystocele (dropping of the bladder into the vagina); urethrocele (sagging of the urethra into the vagina); rectocele (pushing of the rectum into the vaginal wall); or enterocele (bulging of the small intestine into the vaginal wall).  All of these conditions are treatable. A woman who experiences symptoms associated with these conditions should consult a medical professional. There are numerous treatment options available to consider.

Treatment Options for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Treatments available for prolapse depend on the type of prolapse that is presented and its severity. Pelvic floor exercises called Kegel exercises or a vaginal pessary device placed into the vagina to support surrounding structures, are two traditional, non-surgical treatments.

There are now many surgical options available for women who suffer from pelvic organ prolapse. Surgical devices manufactured by American Medical Systems and new techniques have made considerable strides in recent years and physicians now can offer a number of long-term solutions. Many physicians will choose to use a mesh — either synthetic, biologic or both — to provide support for the organs necessary to restore nearby organs to their normal anatomical position.

“The mesh is a soft apparatus and has large pores designed to allow body tissue to grow into it, providing a framework of support,” explains Dr. Allen. “The use of surgical mesh is not new. It has been used in surgery for many years to help correct a prolapsed bladder (cystocele treatment) and other organ prolapses in the pelvic region. The use of the mesh proved to work successfully in many of my patients.”

Living with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

It is important for women to understand that pelvic organ prolapse can be made worse by anything that puts pressure on the belly, such as obesity, constipation, pelvic region fibroid tumors and frequent coughing.  Cutting back on caffeine is also recommended because it acts a diuretic and can cause frequent urination. One should avoid heavy lifting or any other activity that puts stress on the pelvic muscles.

For those women who have more than one type of prolapse, all can often be repaired during one surgical procedure using a mesh for cystocele treatment, rectal or other. “The best news about pelvic organ prolapse is that women do not have to live with it or its associated pain and discomfort,” continues Dr. Allen. “New surgical options are available that are safe and highly effective.”

Dr. Mark Allen, MD is a Dallas-based urologist. He was interviewed for this article.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist in Plano, TX, sees men everyday and counsels them

For couples contemplating a vasectomy as a form of permanent birth control, it is important to discuss all of the factors with your doctor so that you can make an informed decision as to whether or not the procedure is right for you. (photo courtesy of Mike Baird, Creative Commons, Flickr)

as they are faced with a very important decision–whether or not to have a vasectomy.

So consider this:  You are at a point in your life where you have healthy children, they are out of diapers, perhaps already in elementary school; life is normal and calm. Your wife uses birth control but wishes to stop using her current contraception method. It is an important time that many men and women will ultimately face—whether or not the man wishes to move forward and have a vasectomy. While it can be a tough, and sometimes an emotional choice for both the man and the woman, it is an effective and very common choice made by thousands of married couples each year. The more a couple knows about the vasectomy procedure and the effects of vasectomy, the more at ease they will become during the process.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist who practices in the Plano, Frisco and Richardson, Texas areas, offers the following answers to some of the most common questions relating to a vasectomy.

What is a Vasectomy Procedure?

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that provides a man with permanent fertility control; it has been successfully used for a number of years and has become one of the most common urological procedures in the U.S. with more than 500,000 vasectomies performed each year.  During the in-office, short procedure, the tube (known as the vas deferens) leading from each testicle is cut and sealed off. By sealing the vas deferens, sperm can no longer reach the prostate where it would normally mix with semen and potentially cause a pregnancy in his female partner.

Common Reasons to have a Vasectomy

• You want to enjoy sex without the worry of becoming pregnant
• You are done having children and/or do not wish for anymore
• Your partner has health issues that make pregnancy risky
• You and your partner do not wish to use standard birth control
• You want to save your partner the more extensive surgery involved in tubal ligation, as well as the extra expense

How Effective is a Vasectomy in Preventing Pregnancy?

A vasectomy procedure is very safe and much less expensive than female tubal ligation. Once a vasectomy has been performed, the patient must come back on more than one occasion as designated by the physician so that a semen analysis can be performed. These tests will determine the amount of sperm contained in the semen after the procedure. It may take a dozen or more ejaculations and up to two months before the semen is sperm free. Once the sperm is nonexistent in the semen—which is the point and overall result of a vasectomy—then fertilization and pregnancy cannot occur. According to WebMD, a vasectomy is a very effective allowing for a very high—99.85%–birth control effective rate.

Does a Vasectomy Change Sexual Intercourse for a Man?

No. After the vasectomy procedure is performed, and all of the necessary steps have been taken to ensure sterilization, a man will continue to have normal intercourse and will climax and reach orgasm just as before. The ejaculation that follows the orgasm will also look and feel normal. The only difference is that his semen will not contain sperm and he cannot father a child following a vasectomy.

Will a Vasectomy Change a Man’s Hormone Structure?

No.  There are no effects of vasectomy that change hormone structure. Even though a vasectomy will block the delivery of sperm, it will not and does not change hormone structure. This means that the secondary sex characteristics of a man such as facial hair, sex drive, libido, ability to have an erection and ability to climax and orgasm will not change after a vasectomy procedure.

Where Does the Sperm Go?

How do the effects of vasectomy handle the sperm? Most men will ask this question at some point during the vasectomy process. The truth is that the body simply absorbs unused sperm cells. After the procedure, while the testicals will continue to produce sperm, they will not be able to travel through the vas deferens and thus cannot leave the body in the semen. The body will naturally absorb sperm and there will be no side effects to the man.

What is a “No-Scalpel” Vasectomy?

The latest advancement in vasectomy procedures is the “No-Scalpel” vasectomy technique. In the traditional method, a scalpel is used to cut through the scrotum using incisions to cut the vas deferens. Sutures would then be used to close the incision site. Many doctors—as well as patients—favor and prefer the No-Scalpel method because unlike the traditional approach, a scalpel is not required and only one or two tiny punctures is made in the skin.

How Long Does the No-Scalpel Procedure and Recovery Take?

The No-Scalpel vasectomy procedure is performed in-office, with a local anesthetic, and most often only takes about 15-20 minutes. The procedure causes less discomfort than a traditional vasectomy and also allows for a shorter recovery time. The procedure is likely to produce slight discomfort, tenderness, and mild swelling in the first two or three days afterwards; the patient should rest and lay down vertically for the first couple of days to eliminate additional swelling and pain. Most patients will return to all usual activities within a week.

How Effective is a No-Scalpel Vasectomy?

A No-Scalpel vasectomy is equally effective as a traditional vasectomy. Both vasectomy methods rank among the highest procedures for protection from pregnancy.

Is a No-Scalpel Vasectomy Expensive?

The No-Scalpel vasectomy procedure can run anywhere from $500 to $1,300—however, many insurance programs will cover this cost. In some instances, all that might be required is a simple co-pay. Be sure to ask your insurance provider what costs are covered for a traditional vasectomy as well as a No-Scalpel vasectomy. It is important to note that the cost for a vasectomy is much less expensive than tubal ligation, which is the female sterilization method.

Can a Vasectomy be Reversed?

While procedures and surgeries do exist (vasovasostomy) to attempt to reverse a vasectomy, a successful reversal cannot always be guaranteed.  Therefore, when a man considers a vasectomy as a method of sterilization and birth control, he should consider it a permanent move.

So, When Considering a Vasectomy, Remember:

• Talk to your friends, discuss the procedure with your doctor and do your research. The more informed you are, the more comfortable you will be with the process.
• A vasectomy is a simple, safe procedure with very low risks and complications; there are limited side effects of vasectomy, while at the same time, it is a very effective procedure.
• Vasectomies are performed every single day in just about every urologist office in the U.S.  Most urologists perform several of these procedures in a single day.
• Results (complete sterilization) are not immediate; testing and additional analysis must be conducted and it may be weeks before sterility is complete.
• The No-Scalpel method is the preferred vasectomy method today.
• A Vasectomy does not change sex drive; the ability to perform or enjoy sex and it does not interfere with hormonal activity within the body.
• There is no guarantee that a vasectomy can be reversed later; a vasectomy should be considered permanent.

For more information on the vasectomy process, please contact Dr. Mark Allen, Plano, Texas Urologist, at 972.612.8037.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist with North Texas Urology Associates (972.612.8037 ; http://northtexasurologist.com/), treats a wide variety of patients at his Plano, TX urology office but says that kidney stones, in particular, are the most common and most painful of all urology related disorders. Approximately 3 million adults visit health care providers each year complaining of kidney stones. Many are sent to the emergency room because the pain can be excruciating.

Kidney Stones are hard masses that form in the urine and resemble small stones or pebbles. These stones reside in the urinary tract and will eventually either be carried through the urine stream (also referred to as “passing kidney stones”), or they continue to build and will require medical intervention. Researchers indicate that kidney stones have increased in adults over the past several decades. Caucasians are more likely to get kidney stones than African Americans. Once a person gets a kidney stone, they are likely to get them again.

Although doctors do not know what causes a stone to form, researchers have found that when a change occurs in the normal balance of water, salts, and minerals found in urine, kidney stones can form. The most common cause of kidney stones is not drinking enough water. Genetics also plays a part—people who have family members who have had kidney stones are more susceptible to get them. Some individuals are more likely to get kidney stones because of a kidney disorder or a medical condition. Other causes of kidney stones include diet (for example too much vitamin C or those who are on the Atkins diet), inflammatory bowel disease, urinary tract infections, or calcium supplements if taken without food or if used excessively. In addition, foods and drinks containing oxalate can contribute to kidney stones. Foods such as spinach, beets, sweet potatoes, okra, peanuts and chocolate have high levels of oxalate. Individuals with a history of kidney stones are often warned to avoid certain foods with oxalate.

Kidney Stone Symptoms

Kidney stone symptoms are not always obvious. Most often, they go unnoticed. However, the first kidney stone symptoms for most people, unfortunately, include severe pain in the abdominal region; Nausea, vomiting and fever may also occur. Most kidney stones will eventually pass. For patients, passing kidney stones can be a frustrating waiting game and a painful one as they wait for the kidney stones to pass through the urinary system.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, usually recommends that patients wait it out and allow the stones to pass. If the stones are too large, he proceeds with more aggressive measures. “Most of my patients do not have trouble eventually passing kidney stones within a few days. Sometimes, kidney stones can be too large to pass, so we will move to another form of kidney stones treatment—essentially demolishing the stones using shock waves or lasers. Both of these are common, in-office procedures that are very effective. Most of my patients are able to resume their normal activities very quickly. On very rare occasions surgery is required, but with the new laser technology on the market, it isn’t always heeded.”

Dr. Allen states that surgery may be needed for kidney stones treatment to remove kidney stones if:

• The stone does not pass after a specific period of tie
• The patient is in constant and continuous pain
• The stone is too large to pass
• The stone blocks the flow of urine or is in an obscure place within the urinary tract
• Is a consistent problem for the patient—causing other medical issues such as infection.
• The stone causes excessive bleeding

Dr. Allen recommends drinking a lot of water—especially for those who are prone to getting kidney stones. In addition, he recommends that patients avoid calcium pills (supplements) and food with added vitamin D.

For each patient that comes into his office with kidney stones, he devices a plan for them, as most urologists do. “For patients who have consistent stones or a family history, we work to track the stones so we can develop a preventative plan. Certain blood and urine tests are able to assist with this. Some patients will require medication as part of this prevention plan; others will need a complete lifestyle change associated with diet. Once kidney stones are diagnosed and addressed, proactive prevention can help decrease the onset of the stones dramatically,” says Dr. Allen.

If you are experiencing kidney stones, please consult with your urologist and that you can learn about the kidney stones treatment options that are available for you.

Kristy Theis is a marketing consultant and freelance writer based in Dallas, Texas. She has more than 15 years experience in marketing, PR, copywriting and communications. Dr. Mark Allen, MD, Plano, Texas urologist, was interviewed for this article.

More than 5 million men suffer from urinary male incontinence. Don't be one of them. Call your urologist today to learn about the treatment options that are available.

Approximately 5 million men in the United States will suffer from male urinary incontinence each year. According to Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a Plano, TX urologist with North Dallas Urology Associates  (972.612.8037  http://northtexasurologist.com ), a vast majority of these men do not discuss the symptoms associated with their incontinence condition with their family doctors and in many cases, the condition is left untreated.

Urinary incontinence is the loss of urine control. It can lead to episodes of a slight dribble of urine to the inability to hold urine all together; it can also be temporary or permanent depending on the underlying cause. While urinary incontinence is more prevalent in women, it affects more men than what is actually reported. In many cases, a damaged sphincter, the circular muscle that controls the flow of urine out of the bladder, is often the cause of male urinary incontinence. When damaged, which is commonly the unavoidable result of prostate cancer surgery, the muscle cannot squeeze and close off the urethra. This causes urine to leak.

According to Frank, a resident of Plano, TX and a patient of Dr. Mark Allen, incontinence and bladder problems were not only creating emotional stress, but it was limiting his normal activities. “Several years ago I was diagnosed with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). I have had surgery to correct this, but the result of the condition has left me dealing with incontinence.  For me personally, incontinence has been really stressful. It has limited my activities and sometimes actually leaves me homebound.  It is costly, messy and very frustrating.”

Prostate conditions (as in Frank’s case) such as an enlarged prostate and benign prostate hyperplasia, as well as infections such as acute bacterial prostatitis are common causes of incontinence.  In addition, incontinence from prostate cancer surgery is also a concern. Incontinence can become a major setback for men who experience the side effects stemming from prostate cancer surgery, and aside from impotence, it can be a major concern for prostate cancer patients undergoing a total prostatectomy (the surgical removal of the prostate). Other causes of male urinary incontinence and bladder problems include:

• Medications and/or prescription drugs that are given in high doses and that have a sedating effect.
• Spinal cord and/or head injury, which ultimately interrupts messages passing from the brain to the bladder.
• Infections such as urinary tract infections or bladder infections.
• Diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis (incontinence from prostate cancer surgery is an example).
• The aging process naturally leads to wear and tear on body parts and organs and can lead to forms of incontinence.
• Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking can cause incontinence because any toxin that effect human functioning can affect the ability to pass urine; Smoking is also a leading cause of bladder cancer and urinary diseases, which ultimately lead to incontinence.
• Mental State such as emotional stress, depression and illness.

“Unfortunately, many of my patients—like Frank—who suffer from male urinary incontinence and bladder problems stop doing things they enjoy, like going to the gym,” says Dr. Allen. “The primary problem is that incontinence and inconsistency go hand in hand. The urine leakage is unpredictable and varied in terms of quantity. The emotional stress comes from the unknown factor. What many men might not be aware of is that there are advanced treatment options now available for male incontinence.”

There are now real solutions for male urinary incontinence and bladder problems on the market that have been proven to change men’s lives and bring them a sense of normalcy.  From minimally invasive surgical procedures like the male sling for mild to moderate incontinence, to the gold standard artificial urinary sphincter implant that can resolve even severe incontinence, treatment is available. American Medical Systems, a company out of Minnetonka, Minnesota and creator of such devices and procedures has spent the last 35 years working to create medical solutions for both men and women’s pelvic conditions.

Surgical Options Available for Male Urinary Incontinence

• For mild to moderate incontinece:  AdVance® Male Sling System

This is a small sling that is made of synthetic mesh placed inside the body through small incisions. This sling supports the urethra, restoring normal bladder control in most patients. In many cases, the patient becomes continent immediately following the procedure and can resume normal, non-strenuous activities shortly thereafter

• Mild to moderate incontinence:  InVance® Male Sling System

This procedure also involves placing a mesh sling completely inside the body, but it places pressure on the urethra to reduce the possibility of urine leakage. Most patients are continent immediately following the procedure and can resume normal, non-strenuous activities shortly thereafter

• Moderate to severe incontinence: AMS 800® Urinary Control System

For men who suffer from incontinence from prostate cancer surgery (where a total prostatectomy was preformed), the AMS 800® Urinary Control System can offer a solution. This highly advanced, artificial urinary sphincter is placed completely inside the body.  It provides simple, discreet urinary control and mimics a healthy sphincter, keeping the urethra closed until you want to urinate.  The connected system consists of: a pump implanted in the scrotum, an inflatable cuff around the urethra, and a balloon reservoir implanted in the abdomen.  One can control urination by squeezing and releasing the pump.  The pump moves fluid out of the cuff and back into the reservoir. Urine can then flow out of the bladder. Fluid returns from the reservoir to cuff, squeezing the urethra closed again.

As with any surgical procedure, inherent risks are present with these devices and techniques.  Although rare, some of the most severe risks may include infection and erosion, surgical, physical, psychological or mechanical complication.  If these occur, they may necessitate revision or removal of the device.  For the majority of men who have taken the steps to get their incontinence under control, it was a step in the right direction.

“I really had no idea that a small device could help keep my incontinence at bay. For all men who are experiencing this, there is definitely help out there. Just find a reputable urologist and one that has experience with the AMS incontinence devices. My life has returned to normal and I’m able to run, play with my kids and do the activities that incontinence kept me from doing,” says Frank.

If you suffer from incontinence, don’t wait another day. Make an appointment with your urologist to talk about your options for a permanent solution that can help you restore your quality of life…and live life dry!

About the writer: Kristy Theis is the content editor for eMedicalMedia. Dr. Mark Allen, MD, Plano, TX urologist, and professionals from American Medical Systems were interviewed for this article.

Are you a man experiencing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction? If so, there are treatment options available.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a Dallas, TX-based urologist (972.612.8037), offers erectile dysfunction treatment for men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED)—also known as impotence—which is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction is an on-going problem and often leads to a decrease in sexual desire; the condition can cause emotional stress and anxiety and can deeply affect a relationship.

Most men will experience some form of erectile dysfunction after the age of 40 and will not be psychologically affected by it. Frequently, men who have chronic erectile dysfunction are ashamed to discuss the condition with their doctors.

According to Dr. Mark Allen, MD, “It is important for men to reach out to their physicians to discuss their ED symptoms because many times there is an underlying medical problem such as diabetes, heart disease and certain prostate conditions that can be directly linked to the condition. While stress, anxiety and psychological or mental health issues can worsen the symptoms, in most cases, the problem is caused by something physical. There is a clear link between erectile dysfunction and these medical conditions.”

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

There are many erectile dysfunction treatment options on the market today. The first step most doctors will take is to make sure any undiagnosed medical health problem is treated. In many cases, these problems can cause or worsen ED. In addition, patients on medications or drugs for other unrelated health conditions should consider decreasing the dosage if these drugs are proven to have harmful side effects.

Oral medications—such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra—offer successful erectile dysfunction treatment for many men. These drugs enhance the effect of nitric oxide, which is a natural chemical produced by the body that relaxes the muscles within the penis. Each medication varies and is offered in different dosages.

If oral medications fail to work, there are some new erectile dysfunction treatment options that have proven to be successful. A penis pump, or vacuum devise, is available to help create an erection enlarging the penis manually through a hand-powered or battery-powered pump. This pump creates a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis resulting in an erection that typically lasts long enough for intercourse.

The newest erectile dysfunction treatment method being offered by urologists offers a 90% effective rate for men suffering from chronic impotence. The AMS penile implant devise for erectile restoration is offered for men who have exhausted all other treatment options.

The AMS penile implant treatment, performed as an out-patient procedure under general anesthesia, involves surgically placing inflatable cylinder devices into both sides of the penis. These devises consist of semi-rigid rods made from either polyurethane or silicone. Two additional pieces are also used: A reservoir containing liquid and a pump is also connected to the system and is placed under the loose skin of the scrotal sac, between the testicles. To inflate the prosthesis, a man simply presses on the pump that transfers liquid from the reservoir to the cylinders. When this occurs, an erection is the result. When sexual intercourse is over, pressing on the deflation valve will deflate the prostheses.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, offers the AMS devise to his patients. There are several devises to choose from but they each offer the same result. “To most, a penile implant is not visibly noticeable from the outside of the body. That is a big plus for my patients because it looks natural. For men who have had inactive, unsatisfying sex lives, the penile implant devise offers a permanent, long-term solution. The devise does not alter a man’s ability to reach orgasm and ejaculation is not affected. More than 85% of my patients who have had the penile implant procedure have experienced great success and a return of normalcy to their success lives,” says Dr. Mark Allen.

While modern treatments are proving to offer effective remedies for erectile dysfunction, it’s important for men to do their part as well. Certain lifestyle choices are directly related to impotence. If you smoke, quit. If you are overweight, choose a healthier lifestyle and get regular exercise. Drinking too much or taking certain drugs can also worsen erectile dysfunction. Psychological problems in a relationship can cause anxiety, depression and stress—these factors increase the symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction.

Whether the cause of your erectile dysfunction is physical, psychological or both, there are options for you. Make an appointment with your doctor today and learn which erectile dysfunction treatment is right for you.

About the writer:

Kristy Theis is the Medical Content Editor for eMedicalMedia and is a Dallas-based freelance communications writer. Dr. Mark Allen, MD, contributed to this feature.