MEN’S YOUROLOGY

A penile prosthesis is a surgically implanted device that helps men get erections whenever they want to and however long they want. BUT it's a serious surgery and the biggest risk is infection. Did you know penile prosthesis infections have dropped dramatically over the past two decades? Thanks to advances like coated implants, infection rates have gone from around 3–5% in the early 2000s to just 0.3–2.7% today. But this systematic review found something important: men with diabetes still face a 53% higher risk of developing an infection after getting a penile prosthesis.

While technology has made these devices safer than ever, we still want to do everything we can to reduce risk. I aim for a hemoglobin A1c of less than 8% before doing an implant, but the lower the better. Talk to your doctor to learn more!

WOMEN’S YOUROLOGY

How common is it for women to reach orgasm, and what really helps them get there? In this study, researchers set out to better understand women’s experiences with orgasm and overall sexual function by surveying over 300 women in the United States, ranging in age from 18 to 75. They used an anonymous online questionnaire about their sexual function and relationship. About one in five reported being dissatisfied with their sex life. Most women, around 70%, said they reached orgasm frequently, but 10% never had an orgasm!

Vaginal intercourse was the most common way women reported reaching orgasm, but external stimulation, either by a partner or themselves, was also important and actually led to orgasm more quickly.

The study also found that emotional connection and satisfaction with a partner’s sexual performance played a big role in overall sexual satisfaction, while factors like stress, depression, and poor partner communication were linked to lower sexual function.

What this really tells us is that sexual satisfaction is multifaceted. Open communication, emotional closeness, and understanding what works best for each individual are key to a fulfilling sexual relationship.

This week, someone asked me, “Why does the penis have so many veins and can you get more veins and bigger veins over time?”. It’s completely natural to notice visible veins on the penis, and honestly, it’s a good sign. Your penis needs a rich blood supply to function properly, so having lots of veins is totally normal. Sometimes veins might seem more prominent after vigorous activity or with age as skin thins, and things like warm temperatures or increased arousal can make them stand out temporarily.

I love hearing from you, so if there’s a question you’ve been wanting to ask, just let me know. Who knows? Your question might be the one I dive into next!

WHAT I’VE BEEN UP TO LATELY

I recently had the chance to attend a red carpet event, and it was fascinating to see firsthand how the entertainment industry promotes its movies. It was also fun to swap out my usual scrubs for something a little more glamorous for the evening!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM MY CHANNEL

I just shared a truly fascinating story about how Viagra was actually discovered by accident, not as a treatment for ED, but as a heart medication! “Sildenafil was causing spontaneous erections in some of the male participants. Fortunately, they realized they had something major on their hands…”

Here are some quick takeaways:

• Viagra was originally tested for heart problems, not sexual health.

• The accidental side effect of improved erections changed men’s health forever.

• It helped destigmatize ED by making treatment simple and mainstream.

If you or someone you care about is dealing with erectile dysfunction, remember: “When these medications work, they feel like they get their life back.” Check out the full episode to hear the whole incredible story!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM MY PODCAST

I just wrapped up my September AMA, and I loved diving into some tricky but important topics like erections and the sexual side effects of antidepressants. "What matters is, are you having good erections that you are happy with and your partner is happy with?"

Here are a few simple takeaways:

• There’s actually a scale for erection hardness—but your satisfaction matters most.

• Sexual issues can be physical, psychological, or both, so it’s important to talk to your doctor.

• Antidepressants (SSRIs) can impact your sex life, so don’t hesitate to speak up if you notice changes.

I’m a big believer in advocating for yourself and communicating openly about your sexual health, it’s the best way to get the care and answers you deserve. So listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here and see why people are commenting, “I’m so glad this topic is being discussed. Taking care of our elders should be every community’s priority”.

NEW MEDIA

Did you know up to 40% of stroke survivors develop bladder leakage within days? Check out my NEW Substack: Why Strokes Cause Bladder Leaks: How Your Brain and Bladder Get Out of Sync.

In this article, I explain how strokes disrupt bladder control, why symptoms often improve over time, and the key steps patients and caregivers can take to regain confidence and independence.