Doctors Note Logo

Urology

Expert answers from Urology physicians on health concerns and treatment options

Questions & Answers

564 articles

Q

What people get wrong about right testicle and lower abdomen pain

People often assume this pain is a pulled muscle or a simple infection, but it can also signal emergencies like testicular torsion or appendicitis, as well as hernias, kidney stones, prostatitis, or a right sided varicocele that may need imaging. There are several factors to consider and overlapping nerve pathways can blur where the pain starts; see the full list of causes, myths, and what doctors check below. Seek urgent care for sudden severe testicular pain with nausea, fever, blood in urine or stool, inability to pass urine or stool, a groin bulge that will not reduce, or rapidly increasing abdominal size, and review the detailed red flags and next steps below.

Q

The truth about erectile dysfunction in teens

Erectile dysfunction (ED) in teens is uncommon but possible. Most cases stem from stress, performance anxiety, or lifestyle habits rather than serious illness. If symptoms persist for 3 months or longer, a medical evaluation is recommended. Key factors that can contribute to teenage ED include: - Mental health conditions like anxiety or depression - Unrealistic expectations shaped by pornography - Medications and hormonal imbalances - Weight and metabolic health issues - Substance use, including alcohol and recreational drugs Urgent care may be needed if ED is accompanied by pain, injury, or sudden onset. Evidence-based treatments range from counseling and lifestyle changes to targeted medical therapies. Because ED can stem from many overlapping causes, self-diagnosis is difficult—and delaying evaluation can prolong distress. A quick, private, AI-powered assessment can help you identify likely causes and clarify your next steps before speaking with a doctor. Take a free, instant, online <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> to better understand what's going on and confidently plan what to do next. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/03/2026

Q

5 important things to know about micro penis

Micro penis is a rare condition defined as a stretched penile length more than 2.5 standard deviations below the age norm, typically under about 2.5 cm at birth or 7 cm in adults, and it must be measured accurately by a clinician to distinguish it from other conditions. There are several factors to consider, including hormonal or genetic causes, early diagnostic testing and hormone treatment options, psychological support and realistic expectations for sexual function with many men having normal erections and sensation, and when to seek specialist care; see below for the complete details that could shape your next steps.

Q

Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits and Risks for men

Can baking soda and apple cider vinegar help with erectile dysfunction (ED)? The short answer: not directly. However, each may offer modest, indirect benefits for men's health. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may slightly improve post-meal blood sugar control, while baking soda can buffer exercise fatigue—both of which support the weight management and vascular health tied to healthy erections. ACV may also ease occasional heartburn. Risks matter, too. Both can cause enamel erosion, digestive irritation, electrolyte shifts, blood pressure changes, and drug interactions. Neither is proven to treat ED. Below, you'll find safe dosing, timing tips, red flags requiring medical care, and lifestyle steps that move the needle far more. Because ED can signal underlying cardiovascular, hormonal, or metabolic issues, guessing at home remedies isn't enough. Take a free, instant, online <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> to better understand what's driving your symptoms and confidently navigate your next steps. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 06/23/2026

Q

Baking Soda for ED: Should You Try It?

Does baking soda help with erections? No—there is no credible evidence that baking soda improves erectile dysfunction (ED), and combining it with apple cider vinegar (ACV) neutralizes the vinegar's active acid, canceling any potential benefit. While ACV may modestly support weight management and blood sugar control, it has not been shown to treat ED. Key facts to know: - Baking soda is high in sodium and may pose risks for people with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions. - ACV can erode tooth enamel and irritate the digestive tract. - Proven ED treatments (such as PDE5 inhibitors, lifestyle changes, and addressing underlying cardiovascular or metabolic conditions) are safer and more effective. - Persistent or sudden ED can signal serious health issues like heart disease or diabetes and warrants a medical evaluation. Because ED often points to an underlying condition rather than a standalone issue, identifying the root cause is essential before trying any remedy. A free, instant, online <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> can help you understand what may be driving your symptoms and guide your next steps—privately, in just a few minutes, and with no sign-up required. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 06/23/2026

Q

Considering the baking soda vinegar trick for ED; Is the problem all in your head?

No, mixing baking soda with apple cider vinegar does not cure erectile dysfunction (ED), and it may actually pose health risks. Blood pH is tightly regulated by your body, and there is no clinical evidence that this home remedy improves erections. ED is also not simply "in your head"—most cases involve physical factors such as cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, or medication side effects, often combined with stress or anxiety. The good news: there are proven, evidence-based treatments that work, and identifying whether your ED stems from physical or psychological causes is the critical first step. Unsafe home remedies waste time and may delay diagnosis of serious underlying conditions like heart disease or diabetes—both of which commonly present with ED as an early warning sign. Because ED can signal something more serious, don't guess. Take a free, instant, online <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> to better understand what may be driving your symptoms and confidently navigate your next steps. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 06/23/2026

Q

Do penis pumps really work?

Do penis pumps work for erectile dysfunction? Yes. Penis pumps, also called vacuum erection devices (VEDs), are clinically proven to help men achieve and maintain an erection, with effectiveness rates of 60–80% and mostly mild side effects. They are especially helpful for: - Mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED) - Men who cannot take ED pills due to health conditions or medication interactions - Recovery after prostate surgery However, results depend on several factors: the underlying cause of ED, correct technique, safe constriction ring time limits (no more than 30 minutes), and knowing when to combine treatments or consult a clinician. Because ED can stem from many causes—cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, medications, or psychological factors—understanding *why* you're experiencing symptoms is the smartest first step. Take a free, instant, online <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> to get personalized insight into possible causes and clear guidance on what to do next. It takes just a few minutes and could save you weeks of guesswork. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/03/2026

Q

Does medicare cover erectile dysfunction treatment?

Does Medicare cover erectile dysfunction treatment? Yes, Medicare may cover ED treatment, but coverage depends on the therapy type and medical necessity. Oral ED drugs are typically covered under Part D if listed on your plan's formulary, injections and vacuum erection devices often fall under Part B, and penile implant surgery is generally covered under Part A or Part B. Key factors that affect coverage include prior authorization requirements, step therapy rules, cost sharing, Medicare Advantage plan variations, and common exclusions such as over-the-counter supplements. Before choosing a treatment, review your plan's formulary and confirm next steps with your doctor. Because ED can also signal underlying conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances, understanding your symptoms is a critical first step. Take a free, instant, online <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> to clarify what may be causing your symptoms and guide your conversation with your doctor and Medicare plan. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/03/2026

Q

Does radiation treatment for prostate cancer cause erectile dysfunction?

Radiation therapy for prostate cancer is a common cause of erectile dysfunction (ED), typically developing gradually as radiation damages the nerves and blood vessels needed for erections. Research shows that 40–60% of men experience some degree of ED within two years of treatment. Key risk factors include: - Type of radiation (external beam vs. brachytherapy) - Age at treatment - Baseline erectile function before radiation - Underlying health conditions (diabetes, heart disease) - Concurrent hormone therapy Effective treatments are widely available, including lifestyle changes, oral medications (PDE5 inhibitors), vacuum erection devices, injections, and penile implants. Early conversation with your care team leads to better outcomes. Because ED after radiation can overlap with other treatable causes—hormonal, vascular, or psychological—it's important to understand exactly what's driving your symptoms before choosing next steps. A free, private, 3-minute <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> from Ubie Health can help you clarify possible causes, gauge urgency, and prepare focused questions for your doctor—so you spend less time guessing and more time getting the right care. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/03/2026

Q

How does penis enlargement surgery work?

Penis enlargement surgery increases length or girth by either cutting the suspensory ligament so more of the shaft hangs outside the body, or by adding volume with fat transfer, dermal or synthetic grafts, or temporary hyaluronic acid fillers; some people combine procedures, and post-op traction or an extender is critical because gains are usually modest. There are several factors to consider, including recovery time, risks like infection, scarring, asymmetry or sensation changes, variable fat reabsorption, costs, and choosing an experienced surgeon. See complete details below to guide your next steps.

Q

Is micro penis real?

Micropenis is real and medically defined as a stretched penile length more than 2.5 standard deviations below average, roughly under 2.5 inches in adults, with age specific cutoffs for infants and children. There are several factors to consider, including distinguishing it from a buried penis, possible hormonal or genetic causes, how it is diagnosed, treatment options like early testosterone therapy, and when to see a specialist; see below for details that could impact your next steps and support resources.

Q

Is penis enlargement worth considering as a senior?

There are several factors to consider. For most seniors, enlargement offers modest, sometimes temporary size gains but carries real risks and higher complication rates as you age, so it is usually only worth considering if you are healthy, have realistic expectations, and choose an experienced, board-certified specialist. Many people achieve better confidence and sexual satisfaction using non-surgical options like vacuum devices, traction, pelvic floor work, and counseling, often with fewer risks and lower cost. For specific methods, expected results, safety considerations, and deciding next steps with your doctor, see the complete details below.

Q

Is penis enlargement worth considering as a teen?

Generally not recommended for teens, since most are still developing into their early 20s, most fall within normal size ranges, and there are no safe, proven enlargement methods for minors; many advertised options carry real risks like tissue injury, reduced sensitivity, and emotional distress. There are several factors to consider. See below for details on normal development, common myths, the evidence and risks for pumps, extenders, creams, and surgery, mental health considerations, and when to seek professional guidance.

Q

Is penis enlargement worth considering as gay man?

There are several factors to consider. See below for the key numbers, risks, and decision points that might change your next steps. Expect modest gains overall: extenders average 1 to 1.6 cm of length over months, HA fillers add about 1.5 to 2 cm of girth for 9 to 12 months, and surgery brings higher risk for limited improvement; weigh partner preferences, confidence goals, costs, potential complications, and the reality that technique and connection often matter more than size, and consider a consult with a board-certified urologist or a sex therapist.

Q

Life after 60: Do penis pumps really work for seniors?

Yes, penis pumps can work for many men over 60, often producing erections suitable for intercourse with few systemic side effects; clinical trials and international guidelines support them as an effective, safe, and cost-effective option, especially when pills are not ideal. There are several factors to consider. See below for details on candidacy, safe use and ring timing, common side effects and red flags, the need to address underlying heart or hormonal issues, and how pumps compare or combine with other ED treatments, which could influence your next steps.

Q

The difference between true erectile dysfunction and nerves

**Organic vs. Psychogenic ED: How to Tell the Difference** Organic (physical) erectile dysfunction typically develops **gradually**, occurs **consistently** whether with a partner or alone, and is often accompanied by **reduced or absent nighttime and morning erections**. In contrast, psychogenic ED (often called "nerves") tends to appear **suddenly or only in certain situations**, with **normal nocturnal erections** and variable performance. Key factors doctors consider include: - **Mixed causes** (both physical and psychological) - **Red flags** such as cardiovascular risk factors or hormonal symptoms - **Diagnostic tools** like medical history review, blood labs, nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) testing, and penile Doppler ultrasound Because ED can stem from overlapping causes—and may signal underlying health issues like heart disease, diabetes, or low testosterone—self-diagnosing is risky. Taking a free, instant, online <a href="https://ubiehealth.com/symptom-checker">symptom check</a> can help you clarify likely causes, identify red flags early, and guide your next steps toward the right treatment. Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/03/2026

Q

What are the risks and watch-outs for penis pumps?

There are several risks and watch-outs to consider, including bruising or petechiae, pain, numbness or coldness from the constriction band, skin irritation or discoloration, difficulty ejaculating, device problems, psychological stress, and rarely priapism if the band stays on too long; be especially cautious if you use blood thinners, have bleeding or blood-cell disorders, penile infection or severe curvature, or a spinal cord injury. Reduce risk by using gentle suction with lubrication, following time limits of 10 to 15 minutes for the band and 20 to 30 minutes total, inspecting and cleaning the device, and seeking urgent care for an erection over 4 hours or persistent severe symptoms. Many more safety tips, red flags, and next-step guidance are detailed below.

Q

What does a penis pump do?

A penis pump creates a vacuum around the penis that draws blood into the erectile chambers to produce an erection, and a constriction ring can then help maintain it for up to about 30 minutes. It is a drug-free option used for erectile dysfunction, post-surgery penile rehabilitation, and temporary enhancement, but technique, device choice, and safety considerations matter. There are several factors to consider; see below for key benefits, risks, contraindications, and usage tips that could guide your next steps.

Q

What does BDSM mean, and what are the risks?

BDSM is a consensual set of practices that include bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, and sadism and masochism, guided by consent-focused frameworks like Safe, Sane, and Consensual and Risk-Aware Consensual Kink. Risks include physical harm such as bruises, nerve or breathing complications, and infection, as well as emotional triggers, boundary violations, and social or legal consequences; these can be reduced with clear negotiation, safewords, education, proper gear, and aftercare, and medical or mental health support may be needed if injuries or distress occur. There are several factors to consider, and important details that could shape your next steps are summarized below.

Q

What is a micro penis?

A micro penis is a medically defined diagnosis for a penis measuring more than 2.5 standard deviations below the age based average, typically under 2.5 cm in newborns and about 7 cm stretched length in adults. It can reflect hormonal, genetic, or developmental issues and has specific evaluations and treatments that may be time sensitive; there are several factors to consider, so see below to understand measurement details, causes, tests, treatment choices, and when to seek care.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom checker

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get a free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.