Andrological examination

What is an andrological examination?

An andrological examination is a critical step to rule out, diagnose, or monitor a disorder of andrological nature. In addition to patients with known chronic andrological problems, in agreement with a urologist, patients must undergo periodic inspections to monitor their condition. The doctor can diagnose whether symptoms such as feeling discomfort in the genital area, specific testicular discomfort, realization that the testes are asymmetric, and in case of change of texture and sensitivity of the testicles are of andrological nature. 


What is the purpose of an andrological examination?

An andrological examination is useful to prevent, diagnose, monitor, and determine treatments for major andrologic diseases like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, varicocele, phimosis and short frenulum. This type of visit can also be used to monitor the possible evolution of a previously diagnosed disease.


How is an andrological examination carried out?

At the first stage of the examination the specialist collects information on the history and lifestyle of the patient, asking questions about nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and lifestyle, pathologies, other cases in the family of andrological diseases, medication intake, and course of love life.
The specialist will then continue by carefully examining the shape, size, and appearance of the testes and penis, by feeling. If the patient also has urological disorders or is older than 50 years, the examination usually includes a rectal examination to evaluate the health of the prostate and to rule out the presence of venous anal diseases such as hemorrhoids.
The specialist may ask for blood tests such as blood glucose, lipid profile, hepatorenal function, dosage of various hormones, and dosage of free radicals in order to have a clearer picture about the presence of any abnormalities.


Are there any guidelines for preparation?

There are no standards of preparation. It is good, however, that the patient brings any tests carried out at the request of their own doctor, all previous tests already carried out involving an andrological problem, any recent blood tests, even if performed for other reasons, and a note of the name of any medications taken daily.