When to See a Urologist
As we get older, female urinary incontinence can become a common concern. It can be embarrassing and can affect women earlier in life than men due to pregnancy and childbirth. If you’re experiencing incontinence or other problems related to your urinary system, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a urologist.
What’s a Urologist?
A urologist is a specialist who identifies and diagnoses conditions of the urinary system in both men and women. Urologists also treat issues of the male reproductive organs and system as a whole. There are many concentrations within the field of urology that include:
- Female urology
- Male infertility
- Neuro-urology
- Pediatric urology
- Urologic oncology
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Some symptoms are obvious, but others are silent and can’t be detected without testing. See a urologist if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Blood in the urine
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Experiencing incontinence
- Severe constipation
Men should never ignore any of the following symptoms. Schedule an appointment with a urologist if you experience:
- Lower abdominal pain
- A testicular mass
- Difficulty urinating
- Decreased sexual desire
- Infertility
What to Expect When You See a Urologist
Your urologist will normally have notes from the referring doctor, but they’ll ask you questions about your medical history and carry out a physical examination. They may also ask for a urine sample to check for bacteria or other signs of disease. They may also order urodynamic testing, which checks how fast urine leaves your body, how much urine remains in your bladder after urinating, and how much pressure is on your bladder. Following diagnosis, your treatment will depend on the condition.
Urology offers a wide variety of treatment options, which allows you to work with your urologist to find the best treatment for your unique needs. For some, surgery may be the answer. Prescription medications or behavioral therapy may work better for others. Some people can improve most by using a mix of two or three treatments. Together, you and your urologist can arrive at a treatment plan that’s tailored for you.
Learn More About Urology at Baptist Health
As with any condition, early detection is crucial when treating urological conditions. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or would like to learn more about urology, contact the Baptist Health Urology department to schedule an appointment.
Next Steps and Useful Resources:
Men’s Health: Deferred Maintenance (Part 1) [Podcast]
Benefits of Implants for Erectile Dysfunction in Paducah, KY [Video]
How Can I Manage Urinary Incontinence?
