Urology and Gay Men’s Health: What You Should Know

When it comes to urological health, many gay and bisexual men face unique questions and challenges that aren’t always addressed in routine health check-ups. From prostate health to sexual wellbeing and urinary symptoms, understanding your body and feeling safe to talk openly with a urologist is an important part of staying well.

At my practice, I welcome all patients — including members of the LGBTQ+ community — with compassion, clinical excellence, and no judgement. I talk openly about what matters and hope my patients feel comfortable enough to do the same too. 

1. Prostate Health and Sexual Practices

The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder. It plays a role in semen production and can also be a source of sexual pleasure for some men — particularly through receptive anal sex.

However, the same prostate can also be affected by conditions such as prostatitis (inflammation), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate cancer. While these conditions can affect all men, the experience and discussion around prostate health can differ for gay and bisexual men.

For instance, some men may notice discomfort during or after sex, changes in ejaculation, or difficulty urinating. Others might feel hesitant about having a digital rectal examination (DRE), which is an important part of prostate assessment, especially if past experiences with healthcare haven’t felt inclusive or respectful.

At a supportive urology clinic, exams and discussions around sexual history are handled with dignity, privacy, and zero judgement.

2. Urinary Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Common urinary symptoms — such as burning or stinging when you pee, a feeling of incomplete emptying, or increased urgency or frequency — can sometimes be brushed off or misattributed to lifestyle or minor infections.

In gay and bisexual men, these symptoms may be related to:

STIs, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia affecting the urethra or prostate

Prostatitis, often caused by bacterial infections

Pelvic floor tension or dysfunction, which can affect bladder control or sexual function

Underlying urological conditions like BPH or bladder stones

If symptoms persist beyond a few days, it’s worth seeing a GP or a urologist. You don’t need to “wait until it gets worse” — early assessment often leads to simpler, faster solutions.

3. STIs and the Urological System

Some sexually transmitted infections can mimic common urological problems. For example, urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) can cause similar symptoms to a urinary tract infection (UTI), but requires different treatment.

STIs that may affect urological health include:

Gonorrhoea and chlamydia, which can infect the urethra, rectum, or prostate

HPV (human papillomavirus), which is linked to genital warts and some cancers

HIV or herpes, which can also present with urinary or genital symptoms

Many STIs are asymptomatic — meaning you can carry and transmit them without knowing — so regular testing is vital if you're sexually active, particularly with new or multiple partners.

If you’re unsure whether a symptom is STI-related or something else, a urologist can help clarify and guide you to the right testing and treatment — confidentially and without stigma.

4. Feeling Safe in a Healthcare Setting

Some gay men have experienced discomfort or discrimination in healthcare settings — whether subtle or direct. As a result, you may have previously hesitated to disclose your sexuality, sexual practices, or even avoid seeking help altogether.

That’s understandable — and it’s exactly why inclusive care matters.

At my clinic, you can expect:

• Clear communication without assumptions about your relationships or sexual behaviour

• Space to speak openly about your concerns

• Trauma-informed, respectful physical examinations

• A practice environment that welcomes diverse identities and bodies

Your urologist should be part of your care team, not a barrier to care.

5. Preventive Care for Gay and Bisexual Men

Looking after your urological health doesn’t mean waiting until something goes wrong. Preventive care matters — and for gay and bisexual men, there are some specific steps to consider:

HPV vaccination: Safe and effective. Recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) up to age 45.

PSA blood test and prostate check: Starting at age 50 (or earlier if you have a family history of prostate cancer)

STI screening: Every 3–6 months if you're sexually active with multiple partners or part of a higher-risk group.

Discussing changes in ejaculation, libido, erections, or sexual comfort — these can all be related to urological health.

Your Body, Your Health

Being proactive about your urological health is an act of self-care. You deserve care that understands your unique experiences and supports your wellbeing with respect and professionalism.

Whether you’re dealing with a specific issue or simply want to check in with a specialist who gets it, I’m here to help — with no awkwardness, no judgement, and no assumptions.

Book a confidential consultation today — I welcome all members of the LGBTQ+ community with warmth, experience, and care.