Southern California Urology Institute Blog

In 2013, the FDA cleared the UroLift® System, a revolutionary, minimally invasive procedure to treat an enlarged prostate. It is a simple procedure that does not require any cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue.

When your body excretes the salt you eat in urine, calcium is excreted as well. Thus, the more salt you eat, the more salt and calcium will be excreted in urine. When calcium levels in the urine become too high, the calcium spills out into the urine and form kidney stones with sharp edges that may lodge in the kidney or ureter; higher calcium excretion may lead to kidney stone formation, particularly if fluid intake is inadequate.

FAST, EASY, VIRTUALLY PAIN-FREE VASECTOMY In No Needle No Scalpel vasectomy, we use a spray injector to deliver anesthesia to numb the area, as well as a special device to spread the tissue eliminating the scalpel. This technique reduces even further the low complication rate of conventional vasectomy.

Here at Southern California Urology Institute, Dr. Gary C. Bellman performs vasectomies as a simple way of contraception. It remains one of the most effective forms of birth control, and in recent years, has become easier to do with minimal discomfort to patients. The reason being a method called the No-Needle, No Scalpel Vasectomy

Surgical Options for Enlarged Prostate - Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Supplements & Medications for Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
Do They Work?

If you have a kidney stone, you’ll likely know it soon enough. There are several warning signs that can alert you to the formation of a stone; Once a stone moves around within your kidney or passes into your ureter-- the tube connecting the kidney and bladder, these signs and symptoms may occur:

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by both cancerous (malignant) and noncancerous (benign) prostate tissue. PSA helps liquefy the semen and enters the bloodstream at variable rates depending on the health of the prostate. Because PSA is present in both benign and cancerous prostate cells, it's not specific to only prostate cancer. However, cancer cells usually make more PSA than do benign cells, causing PSA to rise early in the course of prostate cancer.

The correct descriptive term for this type of imaging is “MRI Ultrasound Fusion Guided Biopsy.” However, other terms are frequently used and refer to the same process. These terms include Fusion-Guided Biopsy, Fusion Biopsy, MRI/US Biopsy,MRI-Ultrasound Fusion Biopsy, and simply MR Fusion Biopsy. Because these terms can be confusing, we prefer the technically correct name for this procedure.

Hematuria is the medical term for the presence of blood in the urine. Hematuria may be visible to the eye (gross hematuria) or seen only under the microscope (microscopic hematuria). Either way, this signifies an abnormality. Blood may come from anywhere along the urinary tract, including: the kidneys, which make the urine; the ureter, the tube that carries urine to the bladder; the bladder, which stores the urine; the prostate (men only); or the urethra, the tube that carries urine out.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) afflict predominantly women, accounting for a large number of medical appointments every year. UTIs are uncomfortable and can cause frequent and burning urination, urinary urges with little or no result, cramping, lower abdominal pressure, and odorous cloudy urine. The urinary tract begins with the kidneys where waste is filtered from the blood, creating urine. Urine flows through tubes (known as ureters) to the bladder, where it is stored. During urination, the urine flows through the urethra (the external entrance to the urinary tract) and exits as waste.

Over a half-million American men undergo a vasectomy each year-- a safe, simple, and highly effective means of contraception. About 50 million men in the US have undergone this procedure; roughly 5% of all married couples of reproductive age. Although a vasectomy is one of the most popular forms of contraception worldwide, it remains a subject of imagined fears for many men. The best medicine for apprehension can be in simply knowing the facts and receiving real insight from an experienced surgeon.

The first step in preventing kidney stones is to understand what is causing the stones to form. This information helps Dr. Bellman suggest diet changes to prevent future kidney stones. For example, limiting oxalate in the diet may help prevent calcium oxalate stones but will do nothing to prevent uric acid stones. Some dietary recommendations may apply to more than one type of stone. Most notably, drinking enough fluids helps prevent all kinds of kidney stones by keeping urine diluted and flushing away materials that might form stones.

The GreenLight Laser is a minimally-invasive technique for treating BPH. Learn more...

Clinical data has proven that the UroLift System treatment is safe and effective and can improve BPH symptoms 3 to 4 times greater than with medication. Results have shown durability to two years with no impact to sexual function. The goal is to relieve you of bothersome urinary symptoms so you can get back to your life and resume daily activities.

Centuries ago, doctors even tasted their patients’ urine to diagnose diabetes. If it was sweet, it meant the body wasn’t properly clearing away glucose. Fortunately, we have more advanced and much more sanitary medical tests available today, but the ancient clinicians were on to something-- Your urine is an excellent predictor of your health. Urine is a byproduct that includes fluids and other filtrates that come out of your body so it can tell you what’s going on inside. Centuries ago, doctors even tasted their patients’ urine to diagnose diabetes. If it was sweet, it meant the body wasn’t properly clearing away glucose. Fortunately, we have more advanced and much more sanitary medical tests available today, but the ancient clinicians were on to something-- Your urine is an excellent predictor of your health. Urine is a byproduct that includes fluids and other filtrates that come out of your body so it can tell you what’s going on inside. Take a peek at your urine before you flush and watch out for these following signs:

A circumcision is an operation that removes the foreskin. The foreskin is the sleeve of tissue that covers the head of the penis. The usual reason for doing this is for scarring of the foreskin that makes it uncomfortable or painful to retract. It may be so tight in some men that it cannot be retracted at all. A frenuloplasty is a procedure that changes the penile frenulum usually to alleviate restriction.

Here in the office of Dr. Gary C. Bellman, these procedures for kidney stones allow the vast majority of our patients to go home the day of surgery or, in the case of the percutaneous procedure, following a short overnight hospital stay...

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an enlarged prostate. It is an increase in the size of the prostate gland. BPH is very common in older men. It is not caused by prostate cancer.

Vasectomy is a simple operation designed to make a man sterile, or unable to father a child. It is used as a means of contraception in many parts of the world. A total of about 50 million men have had a vasectomy-- a number that corresponds to roughly 5% of all married couples of reproductive age. In comparison, about 15% of couples rely on female sterilization for birth control.

Kidney stones affect approximately 12% of the American population, and calcium oxalate stones account for almost 90% of kidney stone incidences. Oxalates are organic chemicals found in certain foods (such as spinach and beets) that may combine with calcium to form calcium oxalate, an insoluble chemical the human body cannot use.

Making some simple lifestyle changes‚ such as swapping potentially troublesome foods for more healthful items, can help you alleviate overactive bladder symptoms. While certain foods and drinks can aggravate the bladder or cause it to spasm, others can work toward preventing and even relieving symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB).

While a varicocele often causes no symptoms, it is the most common cause of sperm production problems that can lead to male infertility. Some 40% of infertile men have a varicocele and about 80% of those who have already fathered a child but are now infertile have one.

The laws governing minimum vasectomy age will vary depending country and jurisdiction. In the United States, any man who is over the age of 18 and mentally sound can have a vasectomy.

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the skin covering the tip of the penis. Circumcision is fairly common for newborn boys in certain parts of the world, including the United States. For some families, circumcision is a religious ritual. The procedure can also be a matter of family tradition, personal hygiene or preventive health care. While for others, circumcision may seem unnecessary or disfiguring.

In September 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved marketing for the first permanent implant to increase urine flow in men over the age of 50 with BPH. In this minimally invasive procedure—called the UroLift system, the physician pulls back and stitches enlarged prostate tissue that is compressing the urethra and causing BPH symptoms.

Urinary incontinence, the most common pelvic floor disorder, is the involuntary loss of urine. Its severity varies from person to person. Some may ‘leak’ a few drops of urine when they cough. Some may feel strong, sudden urges to urinate that can’t be controlled. While others may lose some urine during sexual activity. All of these types of urinary incontinence can be very stressful. Fortunately, they can be treated.

Here at Southern California Urology Institute, Dr. Gary C. Bellman performs vasectomies as a simple way of contraception. It remains one of the most effective forms of birth control, and in recent years, has become easier to do with minimal discomfort to patients. The reason being a method called the No-Scalpel, No-Needle Vasectomy.

Over a half-million American men undergo a vasectomy each year-- a safe, simple, and highly effective means of contraception. About 50 million men in the US have undergone this procedure; roughly 5% of all married couples of reproductive age. This procedure is intended to be permanent. Though vasectomy reversal procedures are available, they are technically complex, expensive, and have variable success rates. If there is any doubt and you choose to go through with the procedure, banking your sperm is a good option to do before the actual surgery

Surgery is typically the first treatment option for early-stage bladder cancers because tumors have likely not spread to other areas of the body. We may perform surgery for bladder cancers that have recurred or metastasized. For some patients, a bladder-preserving approach may be the best option. For others, removal of the entire bladder may reduce the risk of a subsequent cancer. Your doctor will discuss all of your treatment options, so that you can make the best decision for your care. Our surgical oncology experts are experienced in a variety of procedures and we proactively manage the side effects of bladder cancer surgery.

Early attention to symptoms is the best way to find and treat bladder cancer. The earlier bladder cancer is found, the easier it is to treat--and the better your chance of being cured. Symptoms of bladder cancer can also be caused by other, less serious problems. To find out the cause of these symptoms, your doctor will do a series of tests, ask about your exposure to risk factors, and do a complete medical history.

In the US, 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, making it the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men after skin cancer.

Male infertility causes Fertility in men requires normal functioning of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland (hormone-producing glands in the brain), and the testes. Therefore, a variety of conditions can lead to infertility. ● 30%-40% percent of cases are due to problems in the testes (of which about 15%-25% percent are due to genetic causes) ● 10%-20% are due to a blockage in the pathway that sperm use to exit the testes during ejaculation; this can be caused by prior infection. ● 1%-2% percent of cases are due to conditions of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus ● 40% to 50% percent of cases have no identifiable cause, even after an evaluation

What is lithotripsy? Lithotripsy is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to treat kidney stones that are too large to pass through the urinary tract. Lithotripsy treats kidney stones by sending focused ultrasonic energy or shock waves directly to the stone first located with fluoroscopy (a type of X-ray 'movie') or ultrasound (high frequency sound waves). The shock waves break a large stone into smaller stones that will pass through the urinary system.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 70,000 Americans are diagnosed with bladder cancer each year. Bladder cancer is nearly three times more common in men than in women and is most common in people over age 70. The bladder is an expandable, hollow organ in the pelvis where urine is stored until it is emptied from the body through the urethra. The wall of the bladder has several layers including the surface cells, which expand and deflate (the transitional epithelial cells), smooth muscle, and a fibrous layer. The extent to which the cancer has penetrated these layers influences a patient’s treatment and prognosis.

Bladder leakage, also known as urinary incontinence, is the loss of bladder control for involuntary loss of urine. In fact, it’s very likely that you or someone you know--your mother, sister, or best friend—is quietly coping with this potentially embarrassing problem. In a clinical study of 131 women, more than 40% reported that urinary incontinence affected their work or other activities; 1 in 3 women are said to experience bladder leakage in their lifetime. Less than 50% of women with urinary incontinence have discussed their symptoms with a health care provider.

A prostate biopsy is a procedure to remove samples of suspicious tissue from the prostate. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in men that produces fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. During a prostate biopsy, also called a core needle biopsy, a fine needle is used to collect a number of tissue samples from your prostate gland. A prostate biopsy is performed by a doctor who specializes in the urinary system and men's sex organs (urologist). Dr. Bellman may recommend a prostate biopsy if results from initial tests, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test or digital rectal exam (DRE), suggest you may have prostate cancer.

What is circumcision? Circumcision is the removal of a fold of skin (the “foreskin” or “prepuce”) that covers the head (glans) of the un-erect penis. The operation takes about 10 minutes and is performed under local or general anaesthesia. The benefits of medical male circumcision have been shown to potentially also extend to women. It has been shown that female partners of men who are circumcised have a less risk of contracting the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus that causes cervical cancer in women.

PSA is a substance in the blood that is primarily made by the prostate gland. It can be found in higher-than-normal levels in men with various prostate conditions, including prostate cancer, benign (noncancerous) prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, an enlarged prostate), and inflammation or infection of the prostate.

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a term that has been used to refer to a clinical syndrome characterized by chronic urinary urgency (feeling the need to urinate immediately) and frequency (frequent urination), usually with suprapubic discomfort or pressure and usually relieved by urinating. The symptoms of this condition vary among individuals and may even vary with time in the same individual. The term "cystitis" refers to any inflammation of the bladder. In comparison to bacterial cystitis that results from an infection in the bladder, no infectious organism have been identified in people with interstitial cystitis.

Kidney stones (calculi) are hardened mineral deposits that form in the kidney. They originate as microscopic particles or crystals and develop into stones over time. The medical term for this condition is nephrolithiasis, or renal stone disease. Most of us don't give much thought to kidney stones until we have one that causes severe pain. Then, we may not be able to think about much else besides the stone and its discomfort. Unfortunately, kidney stones are on the minds of more people today than in the past. They affect about 1 in 11 Americans-- a marked increase over the 1 in 20 they affected in 1994.

After menopause, a woman’s chance of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) is much greater and one may even find themselves developing chronic UTIs. Hormonal changes associated with menopause can cause physical changes and make it easier to contract a urinary tract infection.

Like a lot of men’s health issues, Peyronie’s disease is something that until recently wasn’t largely talked about. Most likely, this is because men don’t often like to bring attention to problems ‘below the belt’ or ‘in the bedroom’, so to speak. However, research shows that approximately 5% of men have Peyronie’s disease (and that number could be higher for reasons mentioned above).

There are many potential risk factors for ED, which could stem from one particular issue or a combination of several coexisting problems. Erectile dysfunction is often a symptom of a larger medical problem; men suffering from diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, hormonal issues, and other medical conditions that can affect the nerves or the cardiovascular system could all lead to ED. When you suffer from ED, common questions that may arise include: Is erectile dysfunction permanent? What is causing this? How do I fix this problem? Making lifestyle changes can help improve your ED, but there are some factors you’ll have to talk to your doctor about.

Whether or not statins had a positive impact on cancer risk remains an open question. Research has suggested that statins can slow cancer cell growth in certain cancer types such as breast, colorectal, and skin cancers, and may lower the risk for the latter two. Some research has also suggested that statins might lower the overall risk for prostate cancer, but because of inconsistent findings, it was clear more research was needed.

After performing thousands of vasectomy procedures, Dr. Gary C Bellman has found that a combination of the no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy offers the highest level of care to a majority of his patients. This vasectomy surgery is carried out as an in-office procedure and has the least pain and side effects, fewer complications and faster recovery time than other techniques available.

Going to the doctor can often times be met with hesitation, and even the mere thought of a doctor’s visit can be enough to avoid making an appointment. Here at Southern California Urology Institute, Dr. Gary C. Bellman will be able to put you at ease by ensuring you the best treatment options available. With over 20 years of experience, he leads as a specialist in surgical treatments that are minimally invasive, and wherever possible, performed as same-day out-patient procedures.

Testicular cancer starts in the testicles. It typically develops in one or both testicles in young men, although it can occur at any age. It is a highly treatable and usually curable type of cancer. To understand testicular cancer, it helps to know about the normal structure and function of the testicles.

If you’ve ever experienced a urinary tract infection (UTI) you know immediately the burning pain, the constant and intense urge (but inability) to urinate, and the uncomfortable ache in your lower abdomen. These infections are uncomfortable at best, and at worst can lead to severe pain and kidney infections. About half of all women will have at least one UTI in her lifetime, while many women suffer through several infections throughout their lifetime.

Blood in the semen, also called hematospermia, usually does not last long, and it’s not uncommon for men to experience blood in their semen during their lifetime.

Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland, a common condition in adult males. Often caused by infection, prostatitis may develop rapidly (acute) or slowly (chronic).

Impotency in men could be treated with a blue light rather than a blue pill (sildenafil; Viagra), according to Swiss scientists, who are developing a new therapy.

A number of over-the-counter herbal products advertised through late night cable television or through those spam emails that flood your inbox, often promise natural male enhancement. Unfortunately, there haven’t been any scientific studies to show that any of them have value. Touted herb supplements to be particularly aware of are those containing arginine, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, horny goat weed, maca root, tribulus terrestris, and yohimbe; None have been shown to improve a man's ability to achieve or maintain an erection, and you stand to lose time and possibly hundreds of dollars to find that out.

Bladder infections are a common, frustrating condition mostly targeting women, and is uncomfortable, and often times painful.

Dr. Gary Bellman is a Board Certified Urologist and is fully adept in his field. With well over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bellman has gained the trust from both female and male patients- always providing the best possible care.

RISUG is a procedure popularized in India which is supposed to be a reversible sterilization option for men.

Many men may decide that they don’t want to have more children and consider a vasectomy. While thousands of men get vasectomies every year, many men are apprehensive. They worry about the pain and discomfort and after effects. They may encourage their wives to go for a tubal ligation instead.

Renal cell cancer (RCC) is cancer or a mass that grows in the meat of the kidney. It is more common than cancer of the renal pelvis, the part of the kidney that collects the urine. Affecting about 32,000 Americans each year, this cancer usually responds well to treatment when caught early.

Although diabetes and ED (Erectile Dysfunction) are two separate conditions, they can go hand-in-hand. Men with diabetes are 2-3 times more likely to develop erectile dysfunction. In many cases, problems with achieving or maintaining an erection is an early hint that you may be diabetic, particularly in men 45 and under.

Women with urinary incontinence have trouble controlling their flow of urine. This is more of an inconvenience because a simple laugh or a sneeze can cause a urine leakage incident which, of course, can make social situations uncomfortable and awkward. So, women who deal with this problem enthusiastically seek professional help to fix it.

What is interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS)? Interstitial cystitis is a chronic pain condition that affects the bladder. Many experts now call it bladder pain syndrome (BPS). Symptoms of IC/BPS include: • Pain or discomfort believed to be related to the bladder, which often gets worse as the bladder fills. • Feeling like you need to urinate right away (urgency), often (frequency), or both. Most people urinate between 4-7 times a day. Yet with IC, the bladder may hold less urine. People with severe IC urinate as often as 30 times a day. • Pain, pressure, or tenderness in the pelvic area and/or genitals. • Pain during sexual intercourse, or pain during ejaculation for men. • Ulcers and/or bleeding in the bladder.

When one thinks of the warming climate, the phrases that pop into mind probably aren't ‘nausea & queasiness,’ ‘sharp, stabbing pain,’ or ‘blood in your urine.’ Yet these awful symptoms could become more prolific in the coming decades, as hotter weather appears to be linked with the risk of forming a kidney stone.

Approximately 15% of women suffer from overactive bladder (OAB) and an estimated 40%-50% of affected women do not respond to conventional treatments. One possible explanation for the lack of treatment response may be the bacteria present in these women. For the study, researchers evaluated urine specimens of 90 women with and without OAB using a new technique known as expanded quantitative urine culture (EQUC).

Perceptions of premature ejaculation (PE) are often subjective; Some men believe they have premature ejaculation inappropriately, but the International Society of Sexual Medicine defines premature ejaculation as 'ejaculation within a minute.' There have been a variety of treatments for premature ejaculation over the years. Some are more effective than others, but some men have not responded to the previous treatment options. PE affects a significant number of men at some point in their lives. However, a new study shows that pelvic floor exercises can help with treating lifelong premature ejaculation problems. Findings of the new study, show possible improvements in the condition of men with chronic premature ejaculation as researchers found that pelvic floor exercises done for 12 weeks may help treat men with PE.

For more than a century, interstitial cystitis (IC) was thought to be a rare, bladder specific disease that affected only women. Through slow, steady research and several false starts, IC is now considered a pelvic pain syndrome strongly linked to the bladder, the pelvic floor muscles, the bowel, the reproductive tract and/or the nervous system. IC is defined as an unpleasant sensation (pain, pressure, discomfort) perceived to be related to the urinary bladder, associated with lower urinary tract symptoms of more than six weeks duration, with no infection or other clear causes.

Men taking Selenium or Vitamin E supplements may double their risk of prostate cancer, depending on the levels of selenium already in their bodies, a new study suggests-- Research gathered by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center has found that high-dose supplementation with both the trace element Selenium and Vitamin E increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer. But importantly, this risk depends upon a man's selenium status before taking the supplements. These findings, published in Journal of the National Cancer Institute, are based on data from the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial, or SELECT, a rigorously executed, randomized and placebo-controlled trial conducted by the SWOG cancer research cooperative group that involved more than 35,000 men. The study sought to determine whether taking high-dose vitamin E (400 IU/day) and/or selenium (200 mcg/day) supplements could protect men from prostate cancer.

A diet high in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts is believed to reduce the risk of kidney stones in addition to lowering blood pressure, according to a small new study published in the March issue of the National Kidney Foundation's American Journal of Kidney Diseases. This diet is also moderate in low-fat dairy products and low in meat, refined grains and white sugar. Researchers compared a low-oxalate diet, which is frequently prescribed for prevention and treatment of kidney stones, to a Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)-style diet, finding the latter potentially more effective in reducing risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones, the most common type.

The three most common prostate problems are: an enlarged prostate- this is the most common prostate problem prostatitis- an inflammation or infection of the prostate prostate cancer

Physical activity is tied to improved outcomes for men with prostate cancer, according to results in this particular study presented at AACR. Experts say that men who reported walking at a brisk pace had more regularly shaped blood vessels in their prostate tumors compared with those not having a regular physical activity. The study investigated whether prediagnostic physical activity was associated with prostate tumor blood vessel regularity among 572 men enrolled in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. They found that men with the fastest walking pace (3.3–4.5 miles per hour) prior to diagnosis had 8 percent more regularly shaped blood vessels compared with men with the slowest walking pace (1.5–2.5 miles per hour).

Reproduction (or making a baby) is a simple and natural experience for most couples. However, for some couples it is very difficult to conceive. Male infertility is diagnosed when, after testing of both partners, reproductive problems have been found in the male partner.

Male circumcision can be efficacious for men in reducing their risk of HIV acquisition through intercourse with women. Some experts predict that the impact of male circumcision as a biomedical intervention for HIV prevention in Africa could be large , and preparatory work has been done to establish male circumcision programs in Africa. The implications of African trials on circumcision for HIV prevention programs in the United States are less clear; despite the interest of the popular press in the idea. The association between circumcision and reduced risk for HIV acquisition is biologically plausible; the foreskin contains high concentrations of superficial Langerhans cells and macrophages-- all target cells for HIV infection, some of which may also be close to the skin surface. There are also potential associations between lack of circumcision and HIV risk; for example, lack of circumcision is associated with increased risk of genital ulcer diseases, which in turn are associated with increased risk of HIV transmission.

For the new study, conducted by researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine, more than 84,000 postmenopausal women in the Women's Health Initiative were tracked for their physical activity and dietary intake. Researchers found an association between physical activity and a 31% lower kidney stone risk. The finding held true after controlling for certain other potential risk factors, like body mass index. Further more, researchers said women in the study didn't need to be extreme exercisers to reap the benefits. 3-4 hours of walking at a 2-3 mile-per-hour pace, one hour of jogging at a 6 mile- per-hour pace, or 4 hours of light gardening a week seemed to meet the levels of physical activity needed for protective benefits.

Prostate cancer develops in a man's prostate, the gland just below the bladder that produces some of the fluid in semen. It's the most common cancer in men after skin cancer. Prostate cancer often grows very slowly and may not cause significant harm; Although some types are more aggressive and can spread quickly without treatment.

Overactive bladder, also known as urinary incontinence, occurs when your bladder is unable to properly store urine. An overactive bladder causes a sudden urge to urinate and results in an involuntary loss of urine. A variety of factors such as stretched or weak pelvic muscles, chronic UTI's, bladder diseases, an enlarged prostate, diabetes or obesity can trigger an overactive bladder. Herbs have long been used as botanical medicine and have been popular throughout Europe and Asia. Here in the U.S., there has been growing interest in natural supplements that may help overactive bladder and urinary leakage.

A tumor can form in any part of the body, and the bladder is no exception. A bladder tumor forms when bladder cells overgrow, an event that causes a mass or lesion to form. Often times, excess bladder cell reproduction creates a mass that is somewhat like a wart in the bladder. Bladder tumors can be benign, which means they stay in one place and do not spread to other tissues. They can also be malignant, meaning they are cancerous and capable of moving to other parts of the body. It is malignant bladder tumors that are potentially life-threatening.

You can take simple steps to increase your chances of producing healthy sperm;For example •Practice safe sex. Sexually transmitted infections, such as Chlamydia and gonorrhea are a leading cause of infertility for both men and women. To protect yourself, limit your number of sexual partners and use a condom each time you have sex or stay in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected. •Eat a healthy diet. Choose plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants. Studies have shown that incorporating a balanced diet may help improve sperm health. •Maintain a healthy weight. Some research suggests that obesity negatively affects sperm quality, reducing both sperm count and sperm movement. •Manage stress. Stress can decrease sexual function and interfere with the hormones needed to produce sperm. •Get moving. Include physical activity in your daily routine.

Chlamydia is the most commonly reported STD (sexually transmitted disease) in the United States-- more than one million cases every year. But because Chlamydia can infect you without causing symptoms, estimates suggest that the real number is actually closer to three million.

Urinary Incontinence is divided into three different categories, or types. In our office, we commonly see patients experiencing a mix of the types or all three.

Menopause leads to bone loss because decreases in estrogen production both increase bone absorption and decrease calcium absorption. Annual decreases in bone mass of 3%–5% per year frequently occur in the first years of menopause, but the decreases are typically less than 1% per year after age 65 .

When it comes to treating prostate cancer, there’s more good news than you might think. The most effective treatments carry a cure rate of about 90% when the cancer is caught early and confined to the prostate, as 75% of them are when diagnosed. What’s more, treatments are improving…

The UroLift System by NeoTract Inc. has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a minimally invasive device to relieve low or blocked urine flow in men ages 50 or older. The device works by pulling back the prostate tissue that is pressing on the urethra to improve urine flow. The UroLift system uses small implants that are placed to open the urethra directly by retracting the obstructing prostatic lobes without applying any incisions.

Recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTI) can put a damper on vacations, honeymoons and even result in an urgent care visit. The good news is, yes, they’re a nuisance and often times very uncomfortable, but there is no evidence that chronic UTIs lead to issues such as high blood pressure or renal disease.

This current article studies that coffee consumption may help men with prostate cancer- The research found that men with a history of prostate cancer who drank four or more cups of coffee daily had a 59% lower risk of seeing their cancer progress or return. Men with hypertension may be vulnerable to the adverse effects of caffeine in coffee or specific components in coffee that may raise serum (blood) cholesterol levels, posing a possible detriment to coronary health.

Bladder dysfunction is one of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) that people are probably least likely to talk to others about and may make them feel more isolated as a person living with MS.

Good voiding habits, particularly frequent urination, are important. Of all the preventive recommendations, drinking enough fluids is the most important guideline for people with any type of kidney stones.

The idea of vasectomy surgery can be frightening for men. Because a vasectomy targets an intimate part of the body, fears about the surgical procedure, painful recovery, and life after surgery are common. The best way to resolve these concerns is to get in touch with your Urologist to learn more about the procedure.

Sometimes getting a man to go to the doctor is often like trying to get him to stop for directions– he just won’t do it. Men often don’t think they need a checkup unless there’s something visibly wrong, but putting off a doctor’s appointment can be detrimental to a man’s health.

Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) is a treatment option for patients who present with urinary urgency, frequency, urge incontinence, or urinary retention. When behavior modification and/or pharmacotherapy did not adequately relieve symptoms, this treatment was found to decrease incidence of overactive bladder or retention symptoms.

Dr. Gary C. Bellman is a Board Certified Urologist with over 20 years of experience and is a leading specialist in the no-needle, no-scalpel procedure and has performed vasectomies on thousands of men.

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a complex, chronic disorder characterized by an inflamed or irritated bladder wall. It can lead to scarring and stiffening of the bladder, decreased bladder capacity, and pinpoint bleeding. IC may also be referred to as:

Flavonoids are natural antioxidants found in various foods. Citrus fruits, cocoa, dark chocolate, blueberries, strawberries, and spinach are all dietary sources rich in flavonoids. One major source is black tea. An American Journal of Epidemiology study examined the connections between flavonoid intake, black tea consumption, and prostate cancer risk.

All body functions- respiration, perspiration, urination and defecation– create acids that must be handled and discarded by the body. If the acids are not discarded, toxicity (acidity) will build-up internally. If your body pH changes, symptoms can occur.

I am often skeptical of the effectiveness of the over the counter ‘supplements’ for enhancement of sexual function in men. I often worry they are not effective or can be harmful. Ginseng has been touted for sometime to have a benefit for a man’s sexual function but there has been little data to support it.

Over and over again the consumption of fruits and vegetables as well as regular exercise have been associated with a lower risk of cancer in general including the risk for prostate cancer.

There are some things no one wants to talk about, even with a doctor. ‘Prostate’ and ‘cancer’ are words that could both be on that list. Put the two together, and you have what is an awkward topic for many. With misconceptions that may arise from a lack of communication about prostate cancer, some men will overlook the importance of proper testing or even a simple check-up.

Should infertile young men seek cancer screening? Not necessarily…

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common bacterial infection in young and elderly women. Despite the higher incidence of bacteria in elderly women, most UTI research has been conducted among young women.

Men with prostate cancer may boost their survival chances if they replace animal fats and carbohydrates in their diet with healthy fats such as olive oils, nuts, and avocados, new research suggests.

A Urologist is a medical doctor who has specialized knowledge and skill overseeing problems of the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive organs.

Flaxseed oil has been used in traditional medicine in treating heart diseases caused by high levels of cholesterol.

Dr. Bellman offers his services throughout the San Fernando Valley. Located in West Hills, his office is adjacent to the cities of Calabasas, Woodland Hills, Tarzana, and Porter Ranch.

Humans have long relied on the sense of taste in the struggle to survive and multiply. A bitter taste alerts us to a plant that may be poisonous, while a sweet taste tells us that a plant is likely high in calories and can help sustain us. Taste receptors are the proteins responsible for our ability to taste salty, sweet, and bitter foods.

The term menopause is used to describe any changes a woman feels just before or after she stops menstruating, marking the end of her reproductive period. When menopausal symptoms occur, they include hot flashes, night sweats, pain during intercourse, increased anxiety or irritability, and the need to urinate more often.

Nuts are associated with many health benefits- May help lower cholesterol, partly by replacing less healthy foods in the diet and is also known to be some of the best sources of healthful fats and protein around.

What no guy wants to talk about- Call it what you may, but when something isn’t working properly down there for men, it’s the elephant in the ‘bedroom’.

Angelina Jolie’s decision to have a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy to prevent breast cancer has been all over the media. In the midst of that attention, a story broke through about a 53-year-old British man who underwent a prostatectomy after testing positive for a BRCA mutation.

Dr. Bellman not only keeps his wait times down but also takes great care of his patients and alongside his years of experience, he is able to keep his patients undergoing a vasectomy at ease with very minimal recovery time.

Dr. Gary Bellman is a vasectomy expert and his office is in West Hills and serves the communities of Agoura Hills and Westlake Village.

Diets high in saturated fat are bad for waistlines, but they can also have a negative impact below the waist for men. A decrease in sperm count and sperm concentration have been linked with ’bad fat’ intake.

Among some excessive users of opiates, they equate the drug experience to sexual pleasure; Although in actuality is detrimental to their sex life- Diminished libido and impaired sexual performance being common with chronic use. Clinical studies have shown that opiates may interfere with sex hormone secretion.

Vasectomy is a surgical procedure of male sterilization for preventing unwanted pregnancy to their female partner. Dr. Bellman recommends his male patients that are considering having a vasectomy, to be sure of no longer wanting kids- Otherwise, banking sperm may be a good option.

I am asked several times a day, “should I take Super Beta Prostate?”

Glutamine is an amino acid or protein building block produced by the body. It serves a variety of functions in supporting the immune, digestive, and nervous system. Additionally, Glutamine helps remove excess ammonia from the body. It is also found in foods such as meats, poultry, cheese, spinach and cabbage. As a dietary supplement, glutamine supplements can help replenish low levels due to stress.

As the warm summer months are approaching us, it’s important to stay hydrated!

The American Urological Association (AUA) has issued a new prostate cancer screening. The new prostate-specific antigen (PSA) calls for routine screening of men between the ages of 55-69. The guidelines do allow for earlier or later PSA testing if certain cases include risk factors.

Men do need Selenium in small amounts for their bodies to properly function. Selenium is a mineral that helps men with their thyroid gland and immune systems to properly function. This mineral also acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from harmful substances that can lead to cardiovascular and certain diseases. A selenium deficiency can lead to Hypothyroidism along with a weaker immune system.

Recently approved by the FDA, a new prostate cancer screening test combines prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and free PSA (fPSA) for cancer detection taken from the precursor to PSA. This change may improve protocol of screening through more accurate readings and decreasing false-positive results.

Dr. Gary C. Bellman is a Board Certified Urologist and has over 20 years of experience dealing with the most complex urology issues. Located in West Hills, specializing in No-Needle No-Scapel Vasectomy, Robotic Prostatectomy, Men’s Health, and urinary issues.

Bone loss is a known side effect of ADT (Androgen-Deprivation Therapy) for men with PCa (Prostate Cancer.) It may seem reasonable that calcium and vitamin D intake would counter effect and help manage with bone loss. Ironically, new data supports that those supplements thought to manage the consequences of ADT can actually be harmful and increase aggressive PCa.

In every health food and convenience store there are over the counter supplements that many men try. The FDA in the article below warns and cautions men against taking these unregulated substances.

Dr. Gary Bellman has performed no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy for many years, and has immense experience with these procedures. He is not only technically adept but additionally is caring and sensitive to the needs and concerns of men considering this procedure. His office staff will make you very comfortable and put you at ease both during the initial consultations as well as during the procedure.

Screening for prostate cancer is currently done with DRE (digital rectal exam-prostate exam) and a PSA (prostatic specific antigen-blood test). If these are concerning, a biopsy is considered. There has been much research and interest in avoiding biopsies, as it can be somewhat painful and have risks of infection, although the risks are actually very low. Currently, a prostate biopsy is the only way to tell if a man has prostate cancer. This article, like many before, discuss the forward advancement in medicine where biopsies may be no longer be necessary.

Dr Bellman routinely performs no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy and serves the city of Tarzana.

Dr. Bellman is an expert in no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy and serves the patients of Westlake Village.

There are many different vasectomy techniques available it can get a bit confusing. Should both ends of the tube (vas deferens) be cut or just one? Should the ends be only cauterized? These are the 3 accepted techniques recommended by the American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines:

When a man ages, his prostate enlarges; a condition referred to as BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy). For many years, there was a procedure called a TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) also referred to as a roto-rooter.

The following link is a recent article showing that the rates of vasectomies have declined during the same period that abortion rates have risen.

Many post menopausal women experience pain during sexual intercourse. A Japanese company has launched a new pill which may help with this challenging problem.

Vivus has a new E.D. pill launched called Avanafil, which is supposed to have a quicker onset of action. Viagra and Levitra need to be taken 1-2 hours before sexual activity for maximum affect. Some men find it difficult to remember to take if not convenient. Alternatively, some men take Cialis daily, not having to worry about the ‘timing’. A product called stain is also available, which is a quicker absorbing Levitra.

It’s that time of year when people fall under the weather and catch the flu. To counter act the symptoms of the common cold or flu, many resort to vitamin C. It is under much debate that vitamin C helps with these problems, but is proven that excessive intake contributes to formation of kidney stones.

Exercise is good for every cell in your body and may reduce your risk for prostate cancer. Find something you like and go at it regularly!

No-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy is rapidly being adopted as the most popular method of birth control. This 15-20 minute office procedure is ideal for men who no longer want to have children. This minimally invasive procedure does not affect sexual function and men are able to drive home themselves after the procedure.

Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis have been around for many years and have only been recommended for erectile dysfunction, commonly known as ED. Recently, studies using daily Cialis have shown that this can additionally help a man with enlarged prostate urinate. Prior to these findings, pills like Flomax, Uroxatrol, and Hytrin were used to provide better urinary flow to these men.

There are many things that can affect a man’s fertility, and the sperm can be rather sensitive to environmental issues.

Men like to try natural products for their prostate. The only supplement that has been proven to be good for your prostate is vitamin D. Men used to take saw palmetto, and has shown to be no more effective than placebo.

Children can be the greatest blessing or an ‘accident’. In 2013 the minimally invasive technique for a vasectomy is called no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy and can usually be done easily in the office. Dr. Bellman is proficient in this technique. For an in depth consultation, call 818-703-9500

A vasectomy is the right choice for many men who no longer wish to have children or who don’t want any. Some younger men are turned away from some offices if they have not had a child. I don’t think it is a requirement for every man to have a child. It is a valid option and choice to decide not to have a child or adopt and partner with someone who already has kids.

This is from Web MD and it is a rather common concern or discomfort among spouses about these pills. Some women worry that their partners are taking these pills for others or simply they shouldn’t take them. In short, these pills are effective and can be an enormous help to men’s healthy sexual function!

Dr. Gary Bellman is a Board Certified Urologist and serves the communities of Porter Ranch as well as Simi Valley and Granada Hills. He does a no-needle no-scalpel vasectomy, as well as bladder, prostate problems, kidney stones, sexual and hormonal problems.

Many men have a child by accident when they may not want to. I see men sometimes who have one extra child that wasn’t planned.

Men are fortunate today to have choices of pills to enhance sexual function, but which is better? It can be confusing….Viagra has been around the longest and is often thought to be more potent for some men. Some men swear by one pill and others swear by another.

Recent studies have shown that Cialis can relax the prostate and help men urinate easier if they have an enlarged prostate. Another word for an enlarged prostate is BPH. Many men can benefit from the best of both worlds and have better erections and urinate better with daily Cialis.

Cialis is thought of as a medication similar to Viagra, to help men achieve and maintain erections. It has not being associated with helping men urinate better when they have an enlarged prostate (BPH). Recent studies have shown that daily Cialis can not only help with sexual function but urination as well.

A recent study suggested men are more likely to die of cancer than women.

Both men and women have put off having children because of careers and finances. Men can experience several issues that can cause infertility. Men can have extra veins around the testicle called a varicocele. These extra veins can cause the testicle to be warmer than normal and decrease the amount and quality of the sperm. There are times where it is necessary to do a small surgery to remove those veins, a procedure called a varicocelectomy.

Dr. Bellman performs a no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy and services men from Simi Valley and Santa Clarita. This minimally invasive procedure can usually be easily performed in the office in 15 minutes. The entire procedure is done through a tiny hole, the size of a pea and heals up very quickly. Some men may prefer to have the procedure done at the surgery center as this may be a personal preference.

Choosing the right doctor for a vasectomy is important. It is important to ask how many vasectomies has the doctor performed and how frequently. Men should be given the option of having the procedure in the office or at the surgery center. Most important is the no-needle, no-scalpel technique.

Dr. Gary Bellman is a urologist serving the community of Tarzana. He is Board Certified and has over 20 years of experience dealing with the most complex urology issues.

As many men age, unfortunately the size of their prostate increases which we call BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy). For many men this leads to going to the restroom too often during the day and especially at night, not emptying their bladder well or having to strain to urinate.

Men are understandably concerned about pain associated with a vasectomy. Dr Bellman performs a no needle no scalpel vasectomy with minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

Dr Bellman performs no needle no scalpel vasectomy and is available to see patient from Santa Clarita. Dr Bellman makes sure not to keep men waiting for more than 1 week for a consultation.

For years men have been taking Flomax to help with urinary symptoms. Flomax is a medicine that relaxes the prostate and helps men urinate better. The only problems have been that Flomax can lower one’s blood pressure and can cause dizziiness and also make erections worse.

The good news is that the technique of vasectomy has become much less invasive. Today experienced urologists are performing no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy.

Dr. Bellman has performed thousands of no-scalpel vasectomy procedures on men who no longer want to have children. His office is in West Hills, but he serves the communities of the San Fernando Valley as well as The Conejo Valley.

Dr. Bellman is currently offering no needle no scalpel vasectomy for men in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks. If you are interested you should make an appointment; you can get in within a week’s time.

Dr. Bellman is currently offering no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy in the office.

Dr. Gary Bellman is currently offering no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomies, which can often be done in the office in 20 minutes.

Some men ‘finish’ too quickly, namely they ejaculate too quickly. This is termed PE or premature ejaculation.

The dreaded prostate exam- is it really necessary? If so at what age?

Many people have heard stories of vasectomy failures. I have had patients tell me their father had a vasectomy and they were conceived nonetheless. How does this happen? What are the vasectomy failure rates? How and why can a vasectomy fail?

Many men’s erection don’t last long enough, or they don’t get hard enough. Men often try natural or over the counter medication or supplements for this issue. Many of these substances contain small amounts of Viagra or Levitra as well as small amounts of oral testosterone which can be dangerous.

How does one keep one’s prostate healthy? What about prostate supplements? Prostate vitamins? Frequent sexual activity?

Many men want to know is a vasectomy reversible and what are the success rates with a vasectomy reversal. I always tell men before a vasectomy about the option of sperm banking which is easier than reversing a vasectomy. Years after a vasectomy, the frozen sperm can be thawed and used.

Many men want to know if they get a vasectomy, can it be reversed? The short answer is yes. However, it is more involved to reserve a vasectomy than to have one done.

Many guys are concerned about vasectomy side effects and vasectomy pain after surgery. They want to know what the vasectomy recovery time is and when they can get back to normal activities.

This recent article should remind men that exercise helps every cell in the body including the testicles. Men who watch too much tv and are not active may be at risk for lower sperm count.

In healthy young men, the prostate is quite small, about the size of a walnut, which allows plenty of room for the urethra to be its normal size. As men get older, many will experience Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Due to excess cell growth, the prostate enlarges and begins to squeeze the urethra and block urine flow.