Many people think a urologist is a doctor only for men. But that’s not true! Urology is a medical field that deals with urinary system health in both men and women, as well as male reproductive health.

What does a urologist treat?
• kidney and bladder diseases (cystitis, pyelonephritis, kidney stones)
• urination problems — frequent urges, incontinence, discomfort
• prostate diseases (prostatitis, adenoma, prostate cancer prevention)
• urinary tract infections
• male infertility and reduced potency
• consequences of injuries and congenital urinary tract abnormalities

A urologist helps with both acute conditions and chronic problems, and also focuses on prevention. Many diseases are easier to prevent than to treat.

When do you really need a urologist?
Symptoms from the urinary system are often seen as “minor” — cystitis goes away on its own, or a “stone passes.” But a urologist helps identify the problem early and prevent complications.

Reasons to make an appointment with a urologist:
• pain or burning during urination — often a sign of bladder or urethral infection
• frequent urination, especially at night — may signal bladder or prostate problems
• blood in urine — a warning symptom that should never be ignored
• pain in the lower back or abdomen — may indicate kidney stones or inflammation
• in men, reduced potency or prostate pain — a reason to check the prostate
• after age 45, men should undergo prostate screening even without symptoms — it reduces cancer risk

Why is it important to see a urologist in time?
Any untreated inflammation or disorder can become chronic and lead to kidney failure or reproductive health issues.