Although chronic pelvic pain is most often associated with women, it’s also a real health problem for men. Unfortunately, it can also be difficult to diagnose. Primary care physicians may run numerous tests and fail to come up with an answer for patients’ symptoms. This is one reason why it’s advisable to turn to a specialist for help. A urologist can help men with chronic pelvic pain understand their condition and identify their treatment options.

Symptoms

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) can involve a wide range of symptoms that may arise periodically and may persist for a long time. Men may report suffering from pain in the urethra, penis, prostate, testicles, perineum, rectum, or groin. The pain may even develop in the thighs, lower abdomen, tail bone, and lower back. It’s not unusual for patients to have trouble pinpointing exactly where the pain is, since it can be felt deep within the body, may be intermittent, and may wax and wane.

Complications

Men with CPPS may report various complications to their urologist. Men may suffer from urinary incontinence. CPPS is associated with urinary frequency, urinary urgency, pain while urinating, or a weak stream. Sexual dysfunction may also occur, including erectile dysfunction, low libido, premature ejaculation, and painful ejaculation.

Causes

Chronic pelvic pain is associated with a number of underlying medical problems, including chronic prostatitis. This refers to an inflammation of the prostate gland , which is usually the result of a chronic bacterial infection. Men with chronic prostatitis may find relief with antibiotics, perhaps combined with alpha-blockers. CPPS may also be associated with epididymitis, testicular problems, scrotal problems, and pelvic floor muscle spasms.

At Urology Associates, P.C., we understand the complexities of diagnosing and treating men with chronic pelvic pain. Our team of urology specialists in Tennessee encourages men to visit one of our 12 clinics for an evaluation, even if they have previously been evaluated elsewhere. New and current patients can reach us at (855) 901-1338 to request an appointment.

Given that much of the research on sexual dysfunction focuses on the male partner, low sex drive in women is not as well understood. However, it’s more common than you might think. Urology specialists have termed this condition hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). More research is needed in this area to definitively determine exactly what causes low libido in women. However, there are currently two primary schools of thought: The vascular theory and hormonal theory.

Vascular Causes

Urology specialists already know that in men, circulatory problems can contribute to sexual dysfunction because of the inhibition of blood flow to the penis. The vascular theory of female HSDD applies this concept to women. It’s thought that women may suffer from low sex drive because reduced blood flow to the pelvic region may prevent sexual arousal, promote vaginal dryness and discomfort, and reduce sensitivity of the clitoris. Growing older, being under severe or chronic stress, or having certain medical conditions such as diabetes and atherosclerosis might contribute to inhibited blood flow to the pelvic region . To address this problem, urologists may recommend topical applications to dilate the blood vessels, increase blood flow, and improve sensitivity and arousal.

Hormonal Causes

Other urologists believe that hormonal imbalance may be primarily responsible for HSDD. As women grow older, their levels of estrogen and testosterone begin to decline. Much like men who are trying hormone replacement therapy, women might consider synthetic hormones to counteract the changes associated with aging.

Contributing Factors

It is quite possible that other issues may contribute to HSDD, perhaps in addition to hormonal or vascular problems. Female sexual dysfunction may be attributed to a prior injury that has caused nerve damage, such as a spinal cord injury. Similarly, women who have previously undergone surgery in the pelvic region may have sustained nerve damage. Other possible risk factors may include excessive bicycle riding, drug use, smoking, and vaginal atrophy.

At the Women’s Institute for Sexual Health (WISH), women will find sensitive and compassionate sexual health care in Nashville. The urology team at Urology Associates, P.C. offers the latest FDA approved treatment for low libido in women, Addyi (fibanserin). Call us today at (855) 901-1338 to arrange a private, one-on-one consult with a urologist.

Overactive bladder is a common health problem that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. If you suffer from difficult-to-control urination and frequent urination, a urologist can help you consider your treatment options.

Some of your treatment options may include those explained in this video. You could try bladder training and Kegel exercises. You might also try lifestyle modifications, such as managing your fluid intake, reducing caffeine, losing weight, and avoiding alcohol. Other patients may need medications or perhaps surgical intervention.

If you suffer from an overactive bladder and live in Tennessee, consult a urologist at Urology Associates, P.C. Call us at (855) 901-1338 to schedule a urology exam or browse our website to explore our treatment options for related conditions, including bladder cancer and erectile dysfunction.