Aging changes in the male reproductive system

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

(Page 2)

Aged male reproductive system

Young male reproductive system

Aging by itself does not necessarily prevent a man from being able to enjoy sexual relationships.

COMMON PROBLEMS

Erectile dysfunction may be a concern for aging men. It is normal for erections to occur less frequently than when a man was younger, and aging men often have less ability to experience repeated ejaculation. However, erectile dysfunction is most often the result of a medical or psychological problem rather than simple aging, and 90% of erectile dysfunction is believed to be of medical rather than psychological origin.

Medications (especially those used to treat hypertension and certain other conditions) can cause some men to be unable to develop or maintain an erection that is sufficient for intercourse. Disorders such as diabetes can also cause erectile dysfunction.

If erectile dysfunction occurs, it can often be treated. Some medications can be changed, and other erectile dysfunction treatments may be helpful. The primary health care provider or a urologist should be consulted if a man is concerned about erectile dysfunction.

BPH may eventually interfere with urination. The enlarged prostate partially blocks the tube that drains the urinary bladder (urethra). Changes in the prostate gland predispose elderly men to urinary tract infections.

Vesicoureteral reflux (backup of urine into the kidneys) may develop if the bladder is inadequately drained, eventually resulting in kidney failure if untreated.

Prostate gland infections or inflammation (various forms of prostatitis) may also occur.

Prostate cancer becomes more common as men age. It is one of the most frequent causes of cancer death for men. Bladder cancer is also a common cancer in older men. Testicular cancers are possible, but these more often occur in younger men.

PREVENTION

Many physical age-related changes, such as prostate enlargement or testicular atrophy, are not preventable. Early and proper treatment of underlying health disorders such as hypertension and diabetes that may be responsible for changes in urinary and sexual health may prevent later problems with urinary and sexual function.

Erectile dysfunction that is caused by medications or illness is often successfully treated. Sexual response changes are most frequently related to factors other than simple aging. Satisfactory sex in older men is more likely if sexual activity has continued during middle age.

RELATED TOPICS

• Aging changes in hormone production
• Aging changes in organs, tissues, and cells
• Aging changes in the kidneys

Review Date: 09/26/2006
Reviewed By: David R. Knowles, M.D., Advanced Urologic Surgeons, Mt. Vernon, IL. Reviewprovided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.