Gray hair, wrinkles … and problems in the bathroom? Things change as we grow older, including your bladder and urinary tract. Issues may range from the frequent urge to urinate to difficulties emptying your bladder. But what’s a normal sign of aging – and when should you call your doctor? George Turini, MD, a urologist with Northeast Medical Group who is affiliated with Westerly Hospital, answers your questions about common bladder issues.
Dr. Turini provides guidance on bladder issues >
For Ann Marie Clang of Oakdale, the fact that she would lose her hair was almost as emotionally devastating as finding out she had cancer.
“There were a few really difficult steps in the process of wrapping my head around it,” said Clang, who was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in December 2022. “The first was ‘I have cancer.’ The second was ‘I’m going to lose my breasts.’ Then it was “I’m going to lose my hair.’”
Read about Smilow Cancer Hospital's Beyond Beauty Program >
The Urology Department has expanded its onsite services to provide patients with enhanced care that may reduce the need for a trip to the operating room.
Katherine Rotker, MD, who specializes in male infertility and sexual health, is a urologist at L+M Hospital and assistant professor of Urology at Yale School of Medicine. She offers options in the clinic for testosterone replacement, including AVEED, a long-term testosterone injection. Additional services include Xiaflex injections, a treatment for penile curvature (also known as Peyronie’s disease).
“Office-based treatments can treat this condition in some patients without the need for surgery,” Dr. Rotker said. “We’re trying to make the experience as easy, comfortable and convenient as possible for our patients so you can get the care you need in a one-stop visit.”
She also performs laser procedures in office to remove genital warts and other genital skin lesions. “Patients don’t have to wait for a visit to a dermatologist or other specialists to treat these genital skin lesions,” she said.
Learn more about how men can maintain their urologic health. Dr. Rotker is giving a free workshop, “Men’s Urologic Health at Every Age,” Thursday, Nov. 2, at 5 pm in Baker Auditorium at L+M Hospital, 365 Montauk Ave., New London. The lecture will focus on the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. Registration is required. For details, call 1-800-562-2537 or register online.
Lawrence + Memorial Hospital and Westerly Hospital offer a series of free wellness programs that cover a variety of health topics.
There is no charge for these programs; however, in-person attendance is limited. All classes (except Oct. 3) start at 5 pm and are held at either L+ M Hospital (365 Montauk Ave., New London) or Westerly Hospital (25 Wells St., Westerly).
Registration is required. For details, call 1-800-562-2537 (L+M classes) or 1-800-636-2824 (WH classes).
A free support group for people with multiple sclerosis and their families is available on the fourth Wednesday of each month. The meetings are held online at 6:30 pm. For information about the schedule and to receive the virtual link, contact Eileen Cicchese at [email protected] or call 860-442-0711 ext. 2393 and leave a message.
Are you looking for a physician? Call 833-346-3637 or visit Find a Doctor for information on physician specialties, office hours and locations as well as insurance plans accepted. Many of our physician practices offer telehealth video visits for your convenience.
Yale New Haven Health offers financial counseling to patients and families. Spanish-speaking counselors are also available. To make an appointment with a financial counselor, call 855-547-4584.
