• Diseases&Conditions
• Procedures & Tests
• Injuries & Symptoms
• Special Topics
• Nutrition

Blaussen Videos
Impotence Movie

Changes in the male reproductive system occur slowly over time as a person ages. Unlike women, men do not experience a sudden change in fertility or in the functioning of their sex organs.

What is the information for this topic?

Several changes occur in the male reproductive system with age. These changes are considered a normal part of aging:

• The ability to have repeated ejaculation is often decreased.
• Ejaculation may become more difficult and occur less often.
• The epididymis, the seminal vesicles, and the prostate gland lose some of their surface cells.
• Getting and keeping a firm erection becomes more difficult.
• The penis often gets slightly smaller.
• The prostate gland becomes enlarged, a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia.
• The sexual drive may decrease slightly.
• Sperm production decreases, which may slightly decrease fertility.
• When compared to earlier in life, the testes can make a normal amount of the male hormone called testosterone, but often make a somewhat reduced amount.
• The testicles decrease in size.
• The tubes that drain the testes become less elastic.

• circulation problems, such as atherosclerosis
• depression or anxiety
• medicines, such as those used to treat high blood pressure
• nerve damage, which may occur after prostate gland surgery or from diabetes
• smoking

Many men have a gradual decrease in their sex drive with age. Sexual responses may also become slower and less intense. However, a total lack of interest in sex is often a sign of underlying problems. Sometimes these problems relate to social changes. Medical conditions such as depression and rarely even cancer are also possible causes.

• a backup of urine into the bladder and kidneys, which can sometimes cause kidney damage or failure
• urinary tract infections, which may involve the bladder, prostate, or kidneys

Prostate cancer is very common as men get older, in fact, it is the most frequent cause of cancer in men. It is often treatable and very slow growing. Because it is so common, however, it is the second leading cause of cancer death in men.

Cancer of the testicles is also possible, though more commonly seen in younger men. Though these issues may not be easy to talk about, they can affect health. Treatment is available for conditions such as an enlarged prostate or impotence. A man should consult a healthcare provider if he has any concerns.