Doc, Can We Talk? The Top 3 Questions Men Ask Me as Their Urologist
By Dr. David Samadi
Let’s be honest—most guys don’t jump at the chance to talk about their health, especially when it involves anything down there. But when something’s off, ignoring it won’t make it go away. That’s where we urologists come in.
Every week, I get asked hundreds of questions—some straightforward, others awkward, and a few that come out in a hushed whisper. The good news? Nothing surprises us. We’ve heard it all, trained to handle it, and want to help.
Here are three of the most common (and essential) questions I get from men—and the answers that can help you take control of your health:
1. “Why is my urination different lately?”
If your bathroom habits are starting to feel like a chore—or you’re mapping out every public restroom wherever you go—it might be time to investigate. Men often notice symptoms like:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- A weak or slow urine stream
- Sudden urges to go
- Difficulty starting or stopping the stream
- Dribbling or leakage
Most of the time, these are signs of an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It’s super common—especially in men over 50—and no, it’s not cancer.
BPH can be annoying, sure. But it’s manageable. Depending on the severity, we might start with medications. If those don’t do the trick, minimally invasive options like UroLift® (tiny implants that hold the prostate tissue back) or procedures like TURP (which removes the overgrown tissue) can make a big difference.
The bottom line is that if your stream has slowed to a trickle, you don’t just have to “live with it.” Let’s fix it.
2. “Can I still have sex after prostate cancer?”
Great question—and the short answer is: yes.
A prostate cancer diagnosis doesn’t mean your sex life is over. I’ve performed thousands of prostate cancer surgeries using a nerve-sparing approach I developed called SMART surgery, which helps preserve both sexual function and urinary control.
Of course, every case is different. Some men may face challenges like difficulty getting or maintaining an erection or changes in orgasm sensation—especially after radiation or chemotherapy. But many of these effects can be addressed.
We’ve got options: ED medications, hormone therapy, even devices or injections (don’t panic—they’re more effective than scary). And if needed, we can bring in specialists in sexual health or intimacy coaching.
Your sexual wellness matters—and no one should feel embarrassed to ask about it.
3. “Why am I having trouble getting (or keeping) an erection?”
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a touchy subject—but it’s also incredibly common. And while it’s frustrating, it can also be an early warning sign of more significant issues like heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Yes, it could be physical—but ED can also stem from stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship strain. It’s like your body’s check engine light: something’s off, and it’s time for a complete diagnostic.
As urologists, we’ll examine the whole picture: medical history, physical exam, bloodwork, hormone levels, and, yes, your mental health. Once we know the root cause, we can craft a treatment plan for you.
That might include lifestyle changes (hello, gym membership), medications like Viagra or Cialis, or referrals to a counselor or therapist if emotional health is playing a role.
Don’t tough it out alone—ED is treatable, and you deserve to feel like yourself again.
Wrapping it up
Asking questions—even the uncomfortable ones—is the first step to taking control of your health. Urologists aren’t here to judge or embarrass you. I’m here to help you stay healthy, feel confident, and live a vibrant life.
So go ahead—ask away. I’ve got answers.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.