Take Control of Your Prostate Health

What starts small can become harder to ignore.

Dr Jonathan Teo

Dr Jonathan Teo

Medical Director & Consultant Urologist
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)
Explore Prostate Treatments
A man in his bathroom holding his groin, feeling a sudden urge to urinate

Just Because It’s Minor
Doesn’t Mean It Doesn’t Matter

Changes in urinary habits can be so gradual that they barely register as a problem. A weaker stream or more frequent trips to the toilet may simply become part of someone’s routine. However, even seemingly minor changes can sometimes indicate an underlying prostate condition and should not automatically be dismissed as part of ageing.

Common Prostate Conditions We Care For

Changes in the prostate can arise for different reasons, and identifying the underlying condition is important in determining whether treatment is needed.

Illustration of an enlarged prostate narrowing the urethra

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that may affect urine flow and cause changes in urinary habits.

Illustration of an inflamed prostate

Prostatitis

Inflammation of the prostate that may cause pelvic discomfort, painful urination or changes in urinary habits.

Illustration of a tumour within the prostate

Prostate Cancer

Abnormal cell growth within the prostate that may develop without noticeable symptoms, particularly in its early stages.

Learn More About Prostate Conditions

Subtle Signs
Worth Looking Out For

Changes in urinary habits may develop gradually, making them easy to overlook. Other symptoms, such as pelvic discomfort or pain during urination, may become noticeable more suddenly.

These symptoms can have causes beyond the prostate and do not necessarily indicate a serious condition. Some prostate conditions, particularly early prostate cancer, may also develop without noticeable symptoms.

  • Difficulty starting urination or maintaining a steady stream
  • Needing to urinate more frequently, especially at night
  • A sudden or difficult-to-control urge to urinate
  • Feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely
  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Discomfort in the pelvic area or pain during ejaculation
  • Blood in the urine or semen

Noticed Something Unusual?

If you’ve experienced changes in urination or persistent discomfort, an assessment can help identify the possible cause.

Understand What’s Happening,
Decide What Comes Next

Similar symptoms can arise from different prostate and urinary conditions. Assessment helps establish the underlying cause and determine whether treatment is necessary, taking into account the diagnosis, clinical findings and how the condition is affecting you.

Understand the Condition

Symptoms, examination findings and relevant investigations

Decide What Comes Next

Based on the diagnosis, clinical findings and individual needs

Monitor

Observation and follow-up where appropriate

Medication

Medical treatment suited to the condition

Procedures

Intervention when clinically indicated

Explore Prostate Treatment Options
A urologist using an anatomical model to explain the prostate to a patient

Knowing When to Get Checked

Changes in urinary habits or persistent pelvic discomfort may warrant medical assessment, particularly when they begin to affect daily activities. You do not need to wait until symptoms become severe to seek advice.

Certain symptoms require more prompt attention:

  • Inability to urinate: A sudden urinary retention requires emergency medical care.
  • Fever with urinary symptoms: May indicate an infection requiring prompt assessment.
  • Heavy bleeding or blood clots in the urine: May indicate significant bleeding or obstruction requiring urgent medical care.

Men with a family history of prostate cancer may also benefit from discussing screening with a doctor, even without symptoms.

Experience That Informs Your Care

Experience in BPH Surgery

Dr Jonathan Teo’s clinical experience includes surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), with minimally invasive BPH procedures among his areas of special interest.

Published Research on BPH Treatment

Dr Teo has published academic articles on BPH treatment during his time in Singapore’s public healthcare sector, alongside his clinical work in urology.

Experience in Urological Education

His academic appointments include teaching roles at NUS, Duke-NUS and NTU, as well as training urology residents through the SingHealth Urology Residency Programme.

Foundational Role in Urological Care

Dr Teo helped establish the Urology Department at Sengkang General Hospital in 2018, contributing to the development of specialist urological services at the hospital.

Dr Jonathan Teo, Medical Director and Consultant Urologist

Dr Jonathan Teo

Medical Director & Consultant Urologist

MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)

Dr Jonathan Teo is the medical director and consultant urologist at Urology Practice, with extensive experience in managing prostate conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. His clinical background includes serving as a consultant urologist at Singapore General Hospital, where he was also Director of Andrology.

His experience in BPH surgery and minimally invasive treatments allows him to discuss a range of management options with patients whose symptoms are not adequately controlled by medication. Treatment recommendations take into account symptom severity, bladder function and whether a procedure is appropriate for the individual’s condition.

Learn More About Dr Teo

Pay Attention to What Your Body Is Telling You

Noticing changes in your urinary habits is reason enough to seek medical advice, even if the cause or need for treatment is unclear. Schedule a consultation today.

Urology Practice

3 Mount Elizabeth, #04-09
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510

820 Thomson Road, #03-08
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A,
Singapore 574623

Operating Hours

Mon – Fri:9.00AM – 12.30PM
2.00PM – 5.00PM
Sat:9.00AM – 12.00PM

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Send us an enquiry today and our clinic team will get in touch with you regarding your appointment.

About Us

Dr Jonathan Teo, Medical Director and Consultant Urologist

Dr Jonathan Teo

Medical Director & Consultant Urologist

MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin)
FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)

Dr Jonathan Teo is a consultant urologist with experience managing prostate conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. His clinical background spans medical and surgical urology across Singapore’s public and private healthcare sectors.

Before entering private practice, Dr Teo served as a consultant urologist and Director of Andrology at Singapore General Hospital. His public-sector career also included contributions to clinical leadership, specialist training and urological research.

Clinical Experience and Areas of Practice

Dr Teo’s clinical experience includes the medical and surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), with minimally invasive BPH procedures among his areas of special interest. He also manages prostate cancer and other urological conditions, drawing on his experience across both public and private healthcare.

His Areas of Practice Include

  • Kidney stone treatment and surgery
  • Prostate cancer care
  • Enlarged prostate (BPH) treatment and surgery
  • Kidney and bladder cancer surgery
  • Andrology and male subfertility
  • Erectile dysfunction and penile conditions
  • Varicocelectomy
  • Penile prosthesis surgery
  • Microscopic testicular sperm extraction

Specialist Training and Clinical Leadership

Dr Teo graduated from the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore in 2006 before obtaining postgraduate surgical qualifications from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. He subsequently completed his specialist urology training through the SingHealth Urology Residency Programme.

During his public-sector career, Dr Teo served at Singapore General Hospital and played a role in establishing the Urology Department at Sengkang General Hospital when the hospital opened in 2018. His involvement contributed to the development of specialist urological services at the hospital.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr Teo served on committees responsible for evaluating drugs, medical devices and implants at Singapore General Hospital. He was also a member of the Ministry of Health Singapore’s Medical Device Committee.

Looking Beyond the Obvious Signs

Prostate symptoms can have different underlying causes. Dr Jonathan Teo draws on his clinical experience to identify what warrants further investigation and guide appropriate care.

International Training and Global Perspective

Following his specialist urology training, Dr Teo pursued subspecialty training in andrology in South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States.

His international engagement has continued through overseas workshops, masterclasses and professional exchanges, as well as speaking engagements at international and regional medical programmes. These opportunities allow him to exchange knowledge with fellow urologists and remain informed about developments in urological care.

This broader perspective informs his clinical practice, including his consideration of evolving treatment approaches where appropriate for each patient.

Advancing Urology Through Education and Research

Dr Teo has contributed to urological research, including published academic work on BPH treatment and andrology. His involvement in research complements his clinical experience in managing prostate conditions.

He has also held teaching appointments at several of Singapore’s medical schools, including the National University of Singapore, Duke-NUS Medical School and Nanyang Technological University. As a faculty member of the SingHealth Urology Residency Programme, he was involved in training future urologists.

A Commitment Beyond Clinical Practice

Dr Teo’s involvement in community work extends beyond his responsibilities as a urologist. As an active grassroots leader with the People’s Association, he contributes to initiatives supporting the wider community.

Outside his clinic and community commitments, Dr Teo enjoys diving and cycling in his free time.

Speak With Dr Jonathan Teo About Your Prostate Health

Whether you’re experiencing urinary changes or considering treatment for an existing prostate condition, Dr Jonathan Teo can help you understand your options and determine an appropriate next step.

Urology Practice

3 Mount Elizabeth, #04-09
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510

820 Thomson Road, #03-08
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A,
Singapore 574623

Operating Hours

Mon – Fri:9.00AM – 12.30PM
2.00PM – 5.00PM
Sat:9.00AM – 12.00PM

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Send us an enquiry today and our clinic team will get in touch with you regarding your appointment.

Prostate Conditions

Dr Jonathan Teo
Dr Jonathan Teo
Medical Director & Consultant Urologist
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)

Could Your Symptoms Be Related to Your Prostate?

Changes in urinary habits can raise questions about prostate health, particularly as men get older. Yet similar symptoms may arise from different conditions, and some prostate problems develop without noticeable symptoms.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis and prostate cancer affect the gland differently and do not necessarily require the same approach to care.

Diagram comparing a normal prostate with an enlarged prostate, showing the bladder, prostate and urethra

Common Conditions That Affect the Prostate

Illustration of an enlarged prostate narrowing the urethra

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that becomes more common with age.

Hormonal changes contribute to prostate growth, although the exact causes are not fully understood. Enlargement may narrow the urethra and affect urine flow.

Illustration of an inflamed prostate

Prostatitis

Prostatitis involves inflammation of the prostate, sometimes due to bacterial infection.

Chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome can also cause persistent pelvic discomfort without an identifiable bacterial infection.

Illustration of a tumour within the prostate

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer develops when abnormal cells grow within the gland.

Age, family history and certain inherited genetic changes can increase the risk. Some cancers progress slowly, although others may behave more aggressively.

Unsure Whether Your Symptoms Need Attention?

Urinary changes can be difficult to interpret on your own. Speak with Dr Jonathan Teo about what you’ve noticed and whether an assessment may be appropriate.

Recognising Changes in
Prostate Health

Prostate conditions don’t always show themselves in the same way. Noticing how your urinary habits or comfort change over time can help you and your doctor decide whether further assessment is needed.

Common changes include:

  • Urinary difficultiesA weak stream, difficulty starting urination or incomplete bladder emptying may occur with BPH and other urinary conditions.
  • Increased urinary frequencyNeeding to urinate more often, particularly at night, may be associated with prostate enlargement.
  • Pain and discomfortPelvic pain, burning during urination or discomfort during ejaculation may be associated with prostatitis.
  • Blood in the urine or semenThese symptoms warrant medical assessment, as they can arise from conditions affecting the urinary or reproductive system.

Early prostate cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms. Men with relevant risk factors, including a family history of prostate cancer, may benefit from discussing screening even without urinary complaints.

Identifying
the Underlying Cause

The choice of investigations depends on the clinical findings and suspected prostate condition.

Assessment may include:

  • Physical examinationA digital rectal examination (DRE) may be performed to assess the prostate’s size, texture and any unusual findings.
  • Urine testsTo check for infection, blood or other abnormalities.
  • Blood testsA prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test may be considered where appropriate. An elevated PSA level does not necessarily indicate cancer.
  • Urinary function testsUroflowmetry and post-void residual measurements may help assess urine flow and bladder emptying.
  • Imaging and further investigationsUltrasound, prostate MRI or biopsy may be recommended in selected cases, depending on the clinical findings.

Once the underlying condition has been identified, the findings can help determine whether treatment is needed and which approaches may be appropriate.

Explore Prostate Treatments

Frequently Asked Questions About Prostate Conditions

Can an enlarged prostate turn into prostate cancer?

No. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not cancer and does not develop into prostate cancer. However, both conditions can occur in the same person. Having BPH does not rule out the possibility of prostate cancer.

Can prostate problems affect sexual function?

Yes. Certain prostate conditions may be associated with painful ejaculation, erectile difficulties or changes in sexual function. Some prostate treatments can also affect ejaculation or erections. The effects depend on the underlying condition and the treatment involved.

Can haemorrhoids be mistaken for prostate problems?

Haemorrhoids and certain prostate conditions can cause discomfort in nearby areas. Haemorrhoids typically cause anal itching, bleeding or pain, whereas prostatitis may cause deeper pelvic or perineal discomfort. Haemorrhoids do not cause prostate enlargement, inflammation or cancer.

Dr Jonathan Teo, Medical Director and Consultant Urologist

Meet Our Doctor

Dr Jonathan Teo

Medical Director & Consultant Urologist

MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)

Dr Jonathan Teo evaluates suspected prostate conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis and prostate cancer. His approach takes into account how symptoms have developed and the findings from clinical investigations to determine whether further assessment is needed.

Dr Teo also participates in international urology conferences and professional exchanges, keeping him engaged with developments in urological care. These opportunities provide exposure to different clinical perspectives that inform his approach to prostate health.

More About Dr Teo

Get Clarity on Your Prostate Health

Unexplained urinary changes or abnormal screening results may warrant further assessment. Consult Dr Jonathan Teo to understand what your findings may indicate.

Urology Practice

3 Mount Elizabeth, #04-09
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510

820 Thomson Road, #03-08
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A,
Singapore 574623

Operating Hours

Mon – Fri:9.00AM – 12.30PM
2.00PM – 5.00PM
Sat:9.00AM – 12.00PM

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Send us an enquiry today and our clinic team will get in touch with you regarding your appointment.

Prostate Treatments

Dr Jonathan Teo
Dr Jonathan Teo
Medical Director & Consultant Urologist
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)

Finding the Right Approach to Prostate Treatment

Prostate conditions can become more difficult to manage when they progress or begin causing complications. Addressing them at an appropriate stage may help prevent avoidable problems and preserve quality of life.

At our clinic, Dr Jonathan Teo provides care for men with prostate conditions, with treatment recommendations guided by the diagnosis and its impact on their health.

A doctor pointing to the prostate on an anatomical model of the bladder and prostate

What Influences Your Treatment Options?

Treatment decisions consider the nature of the condition alongside factors that may affect its management. Several factors may influence the decision:

Severity and progression

Worsening urinary symptoms, complications or evidence of disease progression may warrant more active treatment.

Clinical findings

Prostate size, the degree of urinary obstruction or the characteristics of a diagnosed cancer can influence which options are suitable.

Overall health

Existing medical conditions and fitness for a procedure may affect treatment recommendations.

Personal priorities

Concerns about recovery, potential side effects and the impact on sexual function may influence treatment choices.

Care That Responds to What Your Body Needs

Your condition deserves attention that goes beyond a standard treatment plan. Dr Jonathan Teo considers how your prostate condition affects you when recommending an appropriate course of care.

Treatment for BPH

Treatment for BPH focuses on relieving urinary difficulties caused by prostate enlargement and reducing the risk of complications. The approach depends on how much bladder function and everyday activities are affected.

Conservative Treatment

Monitoring and Lifestyle Adjustments

Mild symptoms may be managed through regular monitoring and changes to everyday habits. These may include:

  • Adjusting fluid intake before bedtime
  • Limiting caffeine or alcohol
  • Reviewing medications that could aggravate urinary difficulties

Medication

Medication may be recommended when urinary symptoms become more troublesome. Common options include:

  • Alpha-blockersRelax muscles around the prostate and bladder neck to improve urine flow.
  • 5-alpha-reductase inhibitorsReduce the hormonal activity responsible for prostate growth and may gradually shrink the gland.

These medications work differently and may sometimes be prescribed together.

Procedural Treatment

Procedures may be considered when symptoms remain troublesome despite medication or when complications such as urinary retention occur. The techniques differ in how they relieve obstruction, with some repositioning enlarged tissue and others removing or reducing it.

Before and after a prostatic urethral lift, showing implants holding prostate tissue away from the urethra

Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL)

A prostatic urethral lift uses small implants to hold enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, widening the passage for urine. The procedure does not involve cutting or removing prostate tissue and may be suitable for selected patients, depending on prostate anatomy.

Three stages of water vapour therapy reducing enlarged prostate tissue

Water Vapour Therapy

Water vapour therapy delivers controlled steam into enlarged prostate tissue through an instrument inserted into the urethra. The treated tissue gradually reduces in volume as the body absorbs it, helping relieve pressure on the urinary passage.

Resectoscope removing obstructing prostate tissue during TURP

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)

TURP involves passing a surgical instrument through the urethra to remove prostate tissue obstructing urine flow. It is an established surgical option for BPH and does not require an external incision.

Laser fibre removing obstructing prostate tissue and the widened urethra afterwards

Laser Surgery

Laser techniques can remove or vaporise enlarged prostate tissue through an instrument passed along the urethra. The method used depends on the prostate’s characteristics and the type of laser procedure being considered.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery depends on the treatment received. Medication may take time to improve urinary symptoms, whereas procedures can involve temporary discomfort or blood in the urine.

After certain procedures, a urinary catheter may be needed for a short period. Follow-up may include assessing urine flow and checking whether symptoms have improved.

Treatment for Prostatitis

Treating Bacterial Prostatitis

Bacterial prostatitis is treated with antibiotics, with the choice and duration guided by the type of infection and relevant test results. Acute bacterial prostatitis may require urgent treatment, particularly when accompanied by fever or difficulty passing urine.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis generally requires a longer course of antibiotics. Recurrent infections may also warrant further evaluation.

Managing Chronic Prostatitis and Pelvic Pain

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome can cause persistent or recurring discomfort without evidence of bacterial infection. Treatment focuses on the symptoms and contributing factors identified during assessment. Management may involve:

  • MedicationPain relief or alpha-blockers may be considered for selected symptoms.
  • Pelvic floor physiotherapyMay help when pelvic floor muscle tension contributes to discomfort.
  • Symptom managementAdjustments to activities or habits that aggravate pain may provide additional relief.

Recovery and Ongoing Management

Recovery from bacterial prostatitis may take time, even after treatment begins. Persistent fever, worsening pain or difficulty passing urine warrants prompt medical reassessment.

For chronic pelvic pain syndrome, follow-up may focus on identifying symptom triggers and adjusting management when flare-ups occur.

Treatment for Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer treatment depends on the cancer’s risk profile and how far it has spread. The approach may range from close monitoring to treatment intended to control or remove the cancer.

Active Surveillance

Active surveillance may be recommended for selected men with low-risk prostate cancer that is unlikely to progress rapidly. It involves regular monitoring through PSA tests, prostate imaging and repeat biopsies when appropriate.

Treatment may be reconsidered if monitoring reveals signs that the cancer is progressing.

Treatment for Localised Prostate Cancer

When cancer remains confined to the prostate, treatment may be recommended based on its risk of progression and the patient’s overall health. Options may include:

  • Radical prostatectomySurgery to remove the prostate gland and, where appropriate, nearby tissue.
  • RadiotherapyUses targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells. It may be delivered externally or through brachytherapy in selected cases.

Treatment for Advanced Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body often requires systemic treatment. Options may include:

  • Hormone therapyReduces testosterone levels or blocks its effects to slow the growth of hormone-sensitive cancer cells.
  • ChemotherapyMay be used for certain advanced cancers, depending on the disease’s characteristics and response to other treatments.
  • Targeted therapiesMay be considered for selected patients whose cancers have particular molecular characteristics.

Follow-Up

Follow-up commonly involves PSA monitoring to assess treatment response or detect signs of recurrence. The frequency and type of monitoring depend on the treatment received.

Recovery after surgery or radiotherapy may also involve urinary, bowel or sexual side effects that require ongoing management.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prostate Treatment

Can prostate treatment affect sexual function?

Yes. Certain prostate medications and procedures may affect ejaculation or erectile function. The likelihood and type of side effects depend on the treatment used. These considerations are particularly relevant when comparing BPH procedures, as their effects on sexual function can differ.

Will I need to continue medication after a BPH procedure?

Some patients may be able to stop BPH medication after a successful procedure, although others may still need it depending on their symptoms and bladder function. Medication should only be adjusted following medical advice.

Can I undergo more than one prostate treatment at the same time?

Yes, certain prostate conditions may be managed using a combination of treatments. For example, BPH medications may be prescribed together, while prostate cancer treatment may involve radiotherapy alongside hormone therapy. Whether treatments can be combined depends on the diagnosis, their intended effects and potential interactions.

Dr Jonathan Teo, Medical Director and Consultant Urologist

Meet Our Doctor

Dr Jonathan Teo

Medical Director & Consultant Urologist

MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)

Dr Jonathan Teo has experience in the medical and surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), including minimally invasive procedures for prostate enlargement. His practice also encompasses the management of prostatitis and prostate cancer.

Dr Teo has contributed to research involving BPH, reflecting his professional engagement with developments in prostate care. His clinical experience spans patients requiring medication as well as those for whom procedural treatment may be appropriate.

More About Dr Teo

Don’t Wait for Your Prostate Condition to Take Its Toll

Persistent prostate concerns deserve appropriate attention. Speak with Dr Jonathan Teo about treatment options that may help manage your condition.

Urology Practice

3 Mount Elizabeth, #04-09
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510

820 Thomson Road, #03-08
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A,
Singapore 574623

Operating Hours

Mon – Fri:9.00AM – 12.30PM
2.00PM – 5.00PM
Sat:9.00AM – 12.00PM

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Send us an enquiry today and our clinic team will get in touch with you regarding your appointment.

Contact Us

Contact Us

If you have concerns about your prostate health or have been advised to consult a urologist, contact our clinic to arrange an appointment with Dr Jonathan Teo.

Our Clinics

Map showing Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre near Orchard Road, Singapore

Location

Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth, #04-09
Singapore 228510

Contact

Operating Hours

Mon – Fri:9.00AM – 12.30PM
2.00PM – 5.00PM
Sat:9.00AM – 12.00PM

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Thank You

We’ve Received Your Enquiry

Thank you for contacting Urology Practice. Our clinic team will be in touch with you shortly to arrange your consultation with Dr Jonathan Teo.

If your enquiry is urgent, please call us at (+65) 6513 3313 during operating hours.

Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre

3 Mount Elizabeth, #04-09
Singapore 228510

Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A

820 Thomson Road, #03-08
Singapore 574623

Operating Hours

Mon – Fri:9.00AM – 12.30PM
2.00PM – 5.00PM
Sat:9.00AM – 12.00PM

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

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