Male (7 articles)
- Androgen deficiency.
Androgen deficiency in men means the body has lower than normal amounts of male hormones, most importantly, testosterone. This deficiency may be caused by problems in the signals that the testes receive from the pituitary gland in the brain, or problems within the testes themselves. Treatment involves testosterone replacement therapy. Androgen deficiency is sometimes called ‘male menopause’ but this is misleading.
- Androgen deficiency.
Androgens are hormones that make men 'male'. Androgen deficiency means the body has lower than normal amounts of these hormones. The main hormone involved is testosterone. This deficiency may be caused by problems in the brain signals to the testes or problems in the testes. Treatment involves testosterone replacement therapy.
- Circumcision.
Circumcision is an operation to remove the foreskin of the penis. While recent research suggests that there may be some medical reasons for circumcision, it is mostly performed on babies for family, religious or cultural reasons. In Australia today, less than 10 per cent of boys are circumcised.
- Circumcision - surgical procedures.
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin that covers the tip of the penis. Generally, a bell-shaped instrument is inserted under the foreskin which is then removed with scissors, scalpel or a special clamp.
- Contraception - vasectomy.
Vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception that involves cutting and blocking off the tubes in the groin (the vas) that carry sperm from the testicles to the penis. The chances of pregnancy after a vasectomy are around one in 1,000.
- Diabetes and erectile dysfunction.
Men with diabetes are at a higher risk of erectile dysfunction, or impotence, especially if their diabetes is not well controlled. Men who notice a change in sexual functioning should consult their doctor to determine the cause and discuss treatment options.
- Erectile dysfunction.
Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence, is the inability to get or keep an erection. It used to be thought that impotence was psychological in origin but now we know that many cases are caused by a physical problem. Occasional erectile dysfunction is normal, but ongoing impotence should be investigated by a doctor.
- Erectile dysfunction treatments.
A range of treatments is available for erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence. These include oral medications (such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra), injections into the penis, vacuum devices, counselling or implants (penile prosthesis). Ongoing problems may have a medical cause that needs specific treatment and should be investigated by a doctor.
- Foreskin care.
Foreskin care is important for babies, boys and men. The foreskin is the sheath of skin that covers the head (glans) of the penis. Medical conditions of the foreskin include infection, phimosis, paraphimosis and zipper injury.
- Foreskin problems - Q & As.
A range of questions on foreskin problems. Our experts provide the answers.
- Peyronie's disease.
Peyronie's disease is characterised by the formation of abnormal, fibrous lumps (plaques) within the erectile tissue of the penis. Over time, these plaques can grow and deform the erect penis by causing it to curve.
- Prostate gland.
The prostate gland is a male reproductive organ that contributes fluids to nourish sperm cells in the ejaculate. The three most common prostate problems are enlargement, inflammation and cancer.
- Prostatectomy - for cancer.
Radical prostatectomy is one treatment for prostate cancer. This surgery involves removing the prostate gland and the seminal vesicles. Possible side effects of surgery include urinary incontinence and impotence.
- Prostatectomy for benign disease.
Prostatectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the prostate gland. It is one option to relieve the symptoms of enlarged prostate or other benign (non-cancerous) prostate disease. Side effects of surgery can include impotence, urinary incontinence and infertility.
- Quiz - What do you know about the male reproductive system.
Do you know how your body works? Is your lifestyle as healthy as it could be? Test your knowledge with our quick and fun quizzes.
- Reproduction in men.
Sperm production occurs in the testicles. It takes approximately 70 days and requires a temperature 3°C lower than the body, which is why the testicles are housed in the scrotum. The only function of the male sex cell – the sperm – is to fertilise a female egg. This transmits the genetic material from the male to the next generation.
- Reproduction in men.
Sperm production occurs in the testicles. It takes about 70 days and requires a temperature 3°C lower than the body, which is why the testicles are housed in the scrotum. The only function of the male sex cell - the sperm - is to fertilise a female egg. This transmits the genetic material from the male to the next generation.
- Testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer is not a common cancer. Most testicular lumps are not cancer but it is important to see your doctor. Symptoms of testicular cancer may include a swelling or lump in the testicle, usually painless. Other symptoms may include a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum and persistent ache in the lower abdomen or affected testicle. Most testicular lumps are not cancer but it is important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can cure almost all cases of testicular cancer.
- Testicular self examination.
Men with an increased risk of testicular cancer should regularly examine their testicles for unusual lumps or swellings. Testicular self-examination (TSE) only takes a few minutes and can help detect testicular cancer in its earlier stages.
- Undescended testicles.
Undescended testicles means that either one or both testicles are missing from the scrotum and are lodged instead in the groin or inside the lower abdomen. Treatment includes surgery.
