How to Choose an Andrologist in London: A Patient Guide
Updated: Aug 17
Choosing an andrologist in London should be based on verifiable professional information, relevant clinical experience and a consultation process that puts diagnosis before treatment. This guide explains what andrology covers, how to check a doctor’s credentials and which questions can help you make an informed decision. It does not rank individual doctors or promise a particular outcome.
What does an andrologist do?
Andrology focuses on male sexual and reproductive health. Specialist NHS andrology services treat conditions including erectile dysfunction, male factor infertility, Peyronie’s disease, priapism and penile or testicular disorders. Depending on the problem, care may involve a urologist-andrologist working with fertility, endocrinology, radiology, psychosexual or other specialists.
Common reasons to request an andrology assessment include:
difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
penile curvature, pain or a suspected Peyronie’s plaque
premature, delayed or painful ejaculation
male fertility concerns or abnormal semen analysis
possible low testosterone or other hormonal symptoms
testicular, scrotal or penile symptoms
persistent pelvic or genital pain
questions about treatment after prostate or pelvic surgery
What is the difference between a urologist and an andrologist?
Urology covers the urinary tract and male reproductive system. Andrology is a focused area concerned particularly with male sexual function, fertility and genital health. In the UK, many doctors providing specialist andrology care are consultant urologists with additional training and experience in andrology or sexual medicine. The most appropriate clinician depends on the symptom and on the expertise required.
How to choose an andrologist in London
1. Verify GMC registration
Search the General Medical Council register using the doctor’s name or GMC reference number. The register is the official place to check registration status and other available professional information. A website biography should support this check, not replace it.
2. Match the doctor’s expertise to your problem
Andrology is broad. A clinician experienced in male infertility may not offer the same procedures as a clinician whose main work is penile reconstruction or prosthetic surgery. Review the doctor’s stated clinical interests, NHS role, training and publications, then ask whether they regularly assess your particular concern.
3. Look for evidence, not superlatives
Terms such as “best”, “leading” or “guaranteed” are not a substitute for evidence. NHS appointments, academic roles, peer-reviewed publications and recognised qualifications can help you understand a clinician’s background, but no credential can guarantee a result. A responsible consultation should explain uncertainty, alternatives and the limits of each treatment.
4. Expect assessment before treatment
Symptoms such as erectile dysfunction or penile pain can have more than one cause. A specialist should take a medical and sexual history, review medicines and relevant health risks, perform an examination when clinically indicated and recommend tests only when they may influence management. Treatment should follow a working diagnosis rather than being selected solely because a clinic owns a particular device.
5. Assess communication and confidentiality
You should be able to discuss sensitive symptoms without feeling rushed or judged. The clinician should explain options in understandable language, invite questions, describe benefits and risks, and respect your preferences. Ask how personal information, photographs and test results are stored and shared.
6. Clarify fees and follow-up
Before booking private care, ask what the consultation fee includes, whether tests or procedures are charged separately, who performs the treatment, how follow-up works and whom to contact if a problem occurs. If you use insurance, confirm authorisation and provider recognition directly with your insurer.
Questions to ask at an andrology consultation
What are the possible causes of my symptoms?
Which examination or tests are useful, and how will they change management?
What are the evidence-based treatment options, including observation?
What are the likely benefits, limitations and important risks?
Are there alternatives if the first treatment does not work?
Who will perform any procedure and provide follow-up care?
What is the full expected cost, including tests and follow-up?
Which symptoms should prompt urgent medical attention?
What should you bring to the first appointment?
Bring a list of medicines and supplements, relevant medical conditions, previous letters or test results and a brief timeline of the problem. For fertility concerns, bring any previous semen analyses. For erectile or penile symptoms, note when the problem began, whether it is changing and what treatments you have already tried. Do not email intimate photographs unless the clinic has specifically requested them and provided secure instructions.
NHS referral or private andrology consultation?
A GP can assess many initial concerns and refer to an NHS urology or andrology service when appropriate. London NHS services such as UCLH Andrology and Guy’s and St Thomas’ Andrology describe specialist pathways for sexual dysfunction, male infertility and complex genital conditions. Eligibility and waiting times vary. Private consultation may offer more choice of clinician or appointment location, but fees and insurance terms should be checked in advance.
Consultant andrology assessment with Prof Fabio Castiglione
Prof Fabio Castiglione provides private urology and andrology consultations in London for male sexual health, fertility and related conditions. His current NHS profile lists specialist interests including erectile dysfunction, men’s sexual health, penile implants, testosterone therapy, male infertility, premature ejaculation and Peyronie’s disease.
Appointments are available at several London locations. Confirm the appropriate clinic, current fee and required records when booking.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the best andrologist in London?
There is no objective universal ranking that identifies one “best” andrologist for every patient. The right choice depends on your condition, the clinician’s relevant experience, verified registration, communication style, location and the type of treatment or multidisciplinary support you may need.
Do I need a GP referral to see a private andrologist?
A GP referral is often not required for a self-funded private consultation, but some insurers require one before authorising care. The clinic and your insurer can confirm the current requirements.
Is an andrologist only for fertility problems?
No. Andrology also covers erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory problems, Peyronie’s disease, penile and testicular conditions, hormonal concerns and other aspects of male sexual and reproductive health.
What happens during the first andrology appointment?
The consultation usually begins with a detailed history. A focused examination may be recommended, followed by discussion of appropriate investigations and treatment options. The exact process depends on the symptom and individual medical history.
How can I check an andrologist’s credentials?
Search the GMC register, review an official NHS or hospital profile where available, and confirm qualifications and professional roles through the institutions named. Peer-reviewed publications can be checked through databases such as PubMed.
Can an andrologist guarantee that treatment will work?
No responsible clinician can guarantee an individual medical outcome. Results depend on the diagnosis, severity, health factors, treatment selected and personal response. Benefits, uncertainty, risks and alternatives should be discussed before treatment.
Official and clinical sources
About the author
Prof Fabio Castiglione, MD, PhD, FECSM, FEBU, Urologist (ITA). Consultant Urologist and Andrologist — King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; Hon. Reader, King’s College London, UK; Academic Lead of Urology; GMC 7542824; Director and Founder of Holistic Andrology.
Authored by Prof Fabio Castiglione. Editorial update: 17 August 2026. Clinical information was checked against current official UK sources.
Medical disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for personalised medical advice.
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