Questions For Your Doctor

Ask the Right Questions to Get the Answers You Need>>

Can you tell me specifically what my diagnosis is?

Ask for as specific a diagnosis as possible. What do you do next? Are there any choices? If further tests or treatment are needed, you should always ask why they are needed and what other alternatives exist.

What might be causing my symptoms?
If you have an inkling of what may causing your symptoms, be sure to tell the doctor. He or she may be able to rule out some of those suspicions. And if you’re provided the most common cause of your symptoms, but that doesn’t seem likely to you, be sure to follow-up with “What else might be causing my symptoms?”
Do I need to be screened for prostate cancer?

The American Urological Association recommends yearly screenings for men aged 50 – 75 years. This includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood screening and a digital rectal exam. Men with a family history of prostate cancer and African-American men are advised to begin screenings at age 40.

Why is my sexual drive lower than normal?

The doctor may conduct a morning test of your testosterone levels. If it is normal, most urologists do not recommend additional doses of testosterone. Erectile dysfunction at a young age (under 50) may be caused by past trauma, vascular problems or diseases like diabetes or hypertension.

Why do I feel the urge to urinate more frequently?

The urge to urinate usually begins to occur more frequently as men get older. Caffeine and alcohol can make the problem worse by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing the water one needs to pee.

Why does it take a long time to urinate?

Many prostate-related urinary problems are the result of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate that is putting pressure on the urethra, reducing the flow of urine. Medications can help, but in severe cases invasive interventions may be needed.

Why do I have an unusual pain/discomfort/swelling/lump in my genital area?

Don’t be embarrassed about asking questions like these. They may be indications of a urological conditions that need to be treated.

What is your experience with this type of cancer?

If you have a confirmed diagnosis of prostate or testicular cancer you need to ask: What is your level of experience, and are you board certified in this particular area?

You need to have the best treatment for best outcomes, quality of life, and chance of survival. Make sure the urologist you choose is up-to-date on the latest technology and procedures.

Take the BPH Quiz >>

Take the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) quiz to see if your symptoms could lead to BPH.

FAQs >>

Have questions about BPH? Visit our FAQ page to get answers.

How Does It Work >>

Learn more about the procedure to help BPH.

Questions For Your Doctor >>

Find out the questions you should ask your doctor.