Men’s health includes more than just check-ups. Your urinary and reproductive health matters, too — and that’s where a urologist can help.
Urologists are doctors who care for problems with the bladder, prostate, testicles, and sexual health. Many men see a urologist only when something feels wrong — but learning what to look out for can help you catch problems early, when they’re easier to treat.
Our team of urologists at MLKCH share what men need to know about managing their health for Urology Awareness Month.
3 Men's Health Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
1. Prostate cancer screening (PSA blood test)
Prostate cancer often has no early symptoms, which is why regular screenings are important. Ask your doctor if you are getting your PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test every year.
Black men and men with a family history should start screening at age 45.
2. Lumps or bumps in the testicles
Young men under 50 are most at risk for testicular cancer. If you feel anything unusual, get checked right away — it's fast and easy to get checked with an ultrasound.
3. Blood in your urine
If you see blood in your urine, don’t ignore it. Painful blood in your urine may be an infection, but painless blood is even more concerning.
Sometimes blood is the first sign of a bladder tumor or mass. If your doctor says it’s a UTI, and it doesn’t clear up, ask for a second opinion.
Why Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Matters
ED is one of the most common reasons men see a urologist — but it’s about more than sexual health.
ED can be an early warning sign of other conditions like:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Smoking-related vascular disease
Dr. Andino works closely with other MLKCH specialists to help men treat the root causes of ED — not just the symptoms. For many men, getting help for ED is the first step to improving their overall health.
Did you know? In 2025, Medi-Cal began covering advanced treatments for men with permanent ED or urinary problems, including inflatable penile prostheses, male slings and urinary sphincters.
Everyday Habits for Better Urologic Health
You can lower your risk for urinary and sexual health problems by:
- Quitting smoking: Smoking is the top risk factor for bladder cancer and can cause blood vessel damage that leads to ED.
- Moving your body: Cardiovascular exercise 2–3 times a week improves blood flow, lowers inflammation and supports prostate health.
- Eating well: A Mediterranean-style diet — more fruits, vegetables, lean protein and less processed food — helps protect your whole body.
Urology Care for Men at MLKCH
Our team of urologists provides expert care for a full range of men’s health needs — from everyday concerns to more complex conditions.
What We Treat
We care for conditions that affect the urinary tract and reproductive health in men, including:
- Erectile dysfunction (ED): We take a whole-person approach to ED — treating underlying causes like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or smoking.
- Prostate, kidney, and bladder cancers: Our team diagnoses and treats a range of urologic cancers, including access to advanced imaging and surgical expertise.
- Urinary issues: Including difficulty peeing, frequent urination, or changes in your urine stream — often related to the prostate or bladder.
- Kidney stones: We offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments for kidney stones, including options for complex cases.
- Elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen): High PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer or other prostate issues. We evaluate and monitor PSA trends to guide next steps.
- Testicular lumps or swelling: A painless test can help determine whether a lump is cancerous or another condition that may need treatment.
Do You Need to See a Urologist?
Most men only see a urologist when there’s a problem. That’s okay — but if you notice changes with urination, sexual function, or new pain or lumps, it’s time to get checked.
Urologists treat more than you think — and getting care early can protect your health for years to come. Call (424) 529-6755 to make an appointment or find a doctor.