Juan Andino

What inspired you to work in sexual medicine?

I was exposed early to leaders in Sexual Medicine. During my sub-internships at UCLA and the University of Miami, I worked with Dr. Jesse Mills and Dr. Ranjith Ramasamy. I was drawn to these leaders, felt invigorated in clinic discussing issues that impact quality of life, and found prosthetic surgery fascinating. My interest was solidified during my residency training at the University of Michigan - I was fortunate to have a 3-month sexual medicine rotation. Drs. Dana Ohl, Jim Dupree, Bahaa Malaeb, and Miriam Hadj-Moussa encouraged me to pursue an SMSNA fellowship. And I am so glad I did so I can keep doing what I love – in clinic and the operating room.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your career?

Clinically - the positive impact on an individual’s life remains the most rewarding aspect of my career. Most healthcare encounters shy away from discussing sexual health. Creating the space to have frank discussions and being able to address issues such as erectile dysfunction or penile curvature is a privilege. Academically - the ability to contribute to the dissemination of knowledge. This ranges from working with medical students, residents, and fellows to serving on SMSNA and health policy committees to ensure that research findings don’t just sit in a journal. Data has to make it out into the real world to bring about change!

What is something most people don’t know about you? 

Many people assume I’m from Michigan because of how often I say “go blue” or wear a block M. My family moved around a lot looking for resources to help my brother who was diagnosed with autism when we were both toddlers. We left Puerto Rico when I was 12 years old. I was in the small town of Claremore, Oklahoma (hometown of Will Rogers, who never met a man he didn’t like) for junior high and high school. Then got lucky - as I was applying to college, my dad took a job in southwest Michigan. That helped me qualify for in-state tuition, my parents and brothers were a constant support system, and Ann Arbor became home for 14 years.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Dale Carnegie said people rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing. The people who inspired me to pursue Urology and a career in sexual medicine demonstrated this well - they work hard, take excellent care of patients all while bringing a smile or laughter to the room.

What would your ideal vacation be?

Nice weather and a mix of outdoor activities - hiking, swimming, kayaking, or beach volleyball- with the option to relax at a beach, pool, or warm body of water.