The andrologist is one of the most unknown medical specialists to society. Andrology is the medical specialty that studies men, but from a practical standpoint, it focuses on the knowledge of male genitalia. It studies fertility, sexuality, hormone function, and metabolism. When we talk about going to the andrologist, we can refer to it as a man’s visit to the gynecologist.
We should visit the andrologist periodically from adolescence, just as women do with the gynecologist. If everything is fine, at least have an annual check-up.
The andrologist is the doctor who should ensure that genital development is normal and should accompany men throughout their sexual and reproductive lives. One of their main functions is to advise, diagnose, and treat problems of the penis and testicles, hormonal functioning, resolving sexually transmitted diseases, ejaculation control issues, erectile dysfunctions, and all that encompasses psychology, sexology, endocrinology, and genetics related to male fertility and sexual health. The andrologist should also accompany men during andropause, an important stage in a man’s life, which occurs when testosterone begins to decrease and causes significant disorders. Furthermore, the andrologist also covers genetic, endocrine, psychological, sexological, and anthropological aspects.
Above all, the focus that an andrologist should have today is prevention. That’s why periodic visits are important. For example, why wait to have erectile problems if we can prevent them? Why wait for testosterone levels to be low and cause symptoms if we can maintain them at optimal levels? In fact, testosterone issues are among the most common among young or middle-aged men. Testosterone has a very important constitutional role, and if it is low, men will quickly notice the symptoms it causes: irritability, fatigue, lack of concentration, increased body fat, depression, bone fragility, among others.
There is a quote from Professor Valentí Fuster, an eminent cardiologist, that encapsulates the secret of what modern medicine should be: “I have spent my life studying disease when I should have dedicated it to studying health.” This statement prioritizes prevention to avoid disease. The best doctor is not the one who cures. The best doctor is the one who keeps you always in full health. Therefore, periodic visits to the andrologist are the best investment a man can make: investing in his greatest asset, his health, taking care of his body and mind.
At Ovoclinic, we have Dr. Javier Ruiz, an andrologist specializing in male health and assisted reproduction. You can make an appointment through info@ovoclinic.com for any andrological concerns you may have.
