madman
Super Moderator
Urologic surgeon and sexual health specialist, Dr. Arthur Burnett, from Johns Hopkins Medicine, joins our show this week. Dr. Burnett discusses improving sexual health and overall wellness.
Dr. Burnett is the author of a newly published book "The Manhood Rx", which you can learn more about here: https://www.amazon.com/Manhood-Rx-Imp...
The Erectile Dysfunction Radio Podcast is dedicated to educating and empowering all sexual health patients to address erectile dysfunction or any other sexual dysfunction or sexual health issue. It also serves to improve confidence and enhance satisfaction in the relationships of our listeners. This podcast is hosted by a certified sex therapist, Mark Goldberg, LCMFT, CST.
Transcript:
Today we are joined by Dr. Arthur “Bud” Burnett. Dr. Burnett is a board-certified urologist practicing at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. Over his long career, he has been involved in research that led to the development of medications for erectile dysfunction. He is widely regarded as an expert in men’s sexual health, and we are pleased to have him here today.
Dr. Burnett recently published a book titled Manhood RX, which explores important aspects of men’s sexual health that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
Host: Dr. Burnett, thank you for being with us today.
Dr. Burnett: Thank you for having me. It’s my pleasure.
Career and Background
Host: You’ve seen many men for sexual health issues over the years. Could you tell our listeners a little bit about your career?
Dr. Burnett: I’m a urologic surgeon, which means I specialize in the urinary tract and male sexual organs, though I do see some women as well. I’ve been at Johns Hopkins since medical school—almost 40 years. My career has combined surgery, research, and clinical practice. I’ve worked on discoveries in urology while continuing to care for patients.
Host: So, you bring both scientific and clinical expertise. With more than 40 years of experience, you’ve seen a lot of men with sexual health concerns.
Dr. Burnett: Absolutely.
The New Book:
Host: Could you give us an overview of your new book?
Dr. Burnett: The book is titled Manhood RX. “Manhood” refers to the male sexual organ, and “RX” positions it as a prescription of sorts—a guide to men’s sexual health. Sexual health is an important part of overall health, but it’s still treated as a taboo subject. With my background, I wanted to create a resource to empower both patients and healthcare professionals.
Why Men Avoid Doctors
Host: One of the biggest challenges in treating sexual dysfunction is simply getting men to see a doctor. Why do you think there’s so much hesitation?
Dr. Burnett: Men are often reluctant to discuss health in general, and sexual health even more so. Many prefer conversations in the locker room—usually not honest ones—rather than in a doctor’s office. It’s a taboo subject, even though it’s something men want to understand.
Another issue is that men often seek alternatives—herbal remedies, supplements, or online services—because they want to stay anonymous. They may be embarrassed, want a quick fix, or avoid learning if their sexual dysfunction is linked to another health issue.
Host: I’ve also heard men say they go to the doctor for general health but worry they’ll be judged if they bring up sexual dysfunction. From a provider’s side, is this topic still taboo?
Dr. Burnett: That’s an important point. Some doctors are uncomfortable discussing sexual health. Patients have told me they asked for help, only to be dismissed or referred elsewhere without proper guidance. That kind of response discourages men from seeking care.
Misconceptions About Men’s Sexual Health
Host: What are some of the most common misconceptions you’ve encountered?
Dr. Burnett: Locker room talk and men’s magazines exaggerate expectations. Misconceptions include:
- Believing men should perform for extended periods of time
- Thinking larger organs are necessary
- Assuming instant performance at any age or health condition
These ideas create unrealistic standards. Many men overestimate their performance ability or misunderstand what’s normal.
The Role of the Internet
Host: Over your 40-year career, the internet has changed everything. Has it improved or worsened the situation with stigma and misinformation?
Dr. Burnett: The internet has had both positive and negative effects. It spreads awareness but also misinformation, often from unqualified sources. That’s one reason I wrote my book—to provide reliable, authoritative information.
On stigma, I think the internet has helped reduce isolation. Men can connect with others who share similar experiences, which decreases shame. Compared to the early 1990s, men today are more open about sexual dysfunction.
New Frontiers in Sexual Medicine
Host: What do you see on the horizon for sexual medicine?
Dr. Burnett: There are emerging therapies such as shockwave treatment, stem cell therapy, and platelet-rich plasma. These aim not just to enable temporary performance but to heal erectile dysfunction at the root. Still, they need careful study to determine effectiveness and proper use. Patients should be cautious, as these treatments are still evolving.
Sexual Health and Lifespan
Host: As lifespans increase, how does that affect sexual medicine?
Dr. Burnett: Longer life expectancy means we manage life-threatening diseases better, allowing us to focus on quality of life. Sexual health is part of that. Expectations have shifted—what we used to consider “old” at 60 is now viewed as still young. Men in their 80s and 90s often want to remain sexually active, and that’s a valid concern for their overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Host: Do you have any final thoughts for our listeners?
Dr. Burnett: Men’s sexual health is part of general health. Erectile dysfunction, in particular, can be an early warning sign of conditions like heart disease or diabetes. I encourage men to view sexual dysfunction as a reason to get a full health checkup. Seek attention, and do so responsibly.
Host: Dr. Burnett, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Burnett: Thank you—it’s been my pleasure.
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