Many patients find urological issues uncomfortable to talk about, yet at Astera Urology, we hear these questions every day. What feels taboo to you is normal for us. Please know that all conversations with our team are completely confidential. Speaking up is the first step to feeling better, and we’re here to help you do just that.
1. Can erectile dysfunction really be caused by lifestyle choices?
A lot of people assume ED is all in their head, but about 80% of cases actually come down to blood flow. Lifestyle habits like smoking and drinking heavily can absolutely play a role, and so can underlying conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or even certain medications. So many of these causes are addressable; there is a real path forward for most patients. Because ED can sometimes point to a larger issue with your cardiovascular health, our team at Astera Urology always encourages patients to bring it up rather than brush it off. You will not be the first person to walk through our doors with this question, and you certainly will not be the last.
2. Why am I leaking urine, and is there anything I can do about it?
Urinary leakage is a topic people don’t talk about enough, even though it affects many. Whether it happens during exercise, when you laugh, or suddenly without warning, leaking urine isn’t something you have to accept. There are two main types to know about:
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Stress incontinence happens when physical movement or pressure puts strain on the bladder
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Urge incontinence comes on suddenly and strongly with little warning
Both types can be treated. Depending on your situation, our team at Astera Urology might suggest pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes, prescription medications to relax the bladder, or even physical therapy with a pelvic floor specialist. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures or surgical options may also be discussed. Whatever the treatment, our goal is to help you feel like yourself again. The first step is to let us know what you’re going through.
3. Can hot tubs affect fertility, and is a vasectomy reversible?
These two questions might seem unrelated, but they both fall under the category of things patients wonder about and rarely ask out loud. On the hot tub front, the answer is yes, prolonged heat exposure around the testes can temporarily reduce sperm production. The effect is usually reversible once the heat exposure stops, but if you are actively trying to conceive, it is worth cutting back and discussing other factors that may be at play.
When it comes to vasectomy reversal, our team at Astera Urology has extensive experience. Reversal is possible, but success depends on how much time has passed since the vasectomy and other personal factors. It’s an important decision, so we always suggest a detailed consultation to help you understand what to expect. During your consultation, your urologist will review your medical history, discuss your goals, and answer any questions you may have. The doctor will also explain the procedure itself, potential outcomes, and possible risks, so you feel informed and comfortable before making a decision.
No question is too awkward or too small when it comes to your health. At Astera Urology, we offer compassionate, nonjudgmental care for whatever you want to talk about. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
published: April 1, 2026, 2:37 p.m.