An andrologist is a medical doctor or licensed physician who diagnoses and treats men who have reproductive health problems. Patients with hormonal disorders, fertility issues, and erectile dysfunction, among other issues, are helped by these professionals. To help patients overcome and manage their disorders and problems, they conduct physical examinations, prescribe medications, and suggest lifestyle changes. Vasectomies are one of the most common surgical procedures performed by andrologists.
Urology Relationship
Andrology is a subspecialty of urology that involves the practice and study of male reproductive health. Many urologists provide consultation and limited treatment for male patients with reproductive issues, but recurring issues and more complex issues are best handled by an andrologist. A urologist with an andrology background will often have more experience with complex reproductive issues and will be more knowledgeable about potential treatments.
Diseases and Disorders of the Reproductive System
Any andrologist’s main focus is male reproductive health. He or she is often called upon to relieve pain and discomfort caused by groin injuries or deformities, and is considered an expert in impotence, low sperm counts, and prostate problems.
Medications can effectively treat a variety of patient issues, including erectile dysfunction and sexually transmitted diseases. Testicular torsion, undescended testes, infertility, and cancer are all conditions that may necessitate more detailed treatment. Surgical services may be available when needed, depending on regional restrictions and an andrologist’s training. Vasectomies, augmentations, and sex change operations, for example, are all procedures that can be performed on an outpatient basis by some professionals. In vitro fertilization may also fall under the purview of this type of expert.
Compassion’s Importance
Andrologists must usually have a strong bedside manner in order to find success and retain patients’ trust. Sexual and reproductive health issues are often very sensitive topics, so they must have a strong bedside manner in order to find success and retain patients’ trust. Medical professionals in this field frequently struggle to strike a balance between scientific rigor and compassion, and must be able to communicate effectively with both patients and their families. Many of the conditions these professionals treat are chronic, and most treatments rely on both trust and medical precision to be effective.
The Value of Research
When they are not treating patients, most andrologists conduct research and review the latest clinical findings of other doctors in the field to improve their knowledge of the discipline. Some improvements are the result of practice, but many are the result of extensive research. The further an andrologist progresses in the field, the more likely he or she is to publish original findings that contribute to the larger body of knowledge.
Education and training are required.
To become an andrologist, a person must first complete medical school, then complete at least four years of residency training and pass local or national licensing exams. Following medical school, the majority will enter urology residency programs, but some will pursue more general positions in internal medicine or surgery. Many hospitals and specialty clinics also offer a two-year andrology fellowship program for professionals who have completed their residency training. In some countries, a fellowship is not required to become an andrologist, but a doctor can benefit greatly from the additional guidance and experience provided in such a program.
Candidates must usually take a written exam after completing residency and fellowship training to earn board certification and the right to practice independently. The majority of new andrologists start out in clinics or joint urology practices. With enough experience, a professional may be able to open a private practice or work as a consultant for a hospital.