By Devin Kyle
Urology is a medical specialty that focuses on the urinary tract, kidneys, and male reproductive system. A urologist performs surgery to treat urinary tract infections, kidney stones and other problems of the urinary tract. The first step to find a urologist near me is to determine what kind of urologist you need.
General Urologist
A general urologist specializes in the treatment of diseases of the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive system. They can diagnose diseases and develop treatment plans. In addition, general urologists also treat conditions that affect the bladder, kidneys, prostate and testicles.
General urologists may perform surgeries such as kidney stones removal or surgery for incontinence or erectile dysfunction (ED).
Pediatric Urologist
If you need to see a urologist, you might be wondering what exactly they do. A urologist treats patients with urological problems, which can include bladder problems, kidney problems, prostate problems and erectile dysfunction. They also treat urinary tract infections and overactive bladder.
A pediatric urologist specializes in treating children and adolescents with these same conditions but also works closely with children who have hypospadias (an abnormality of the penis) or undescended testicles.
Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist
If you have ever heard the term “female pelvic medicine,” this is the specialists that it refers to. Female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery specialists are urologists who specialize in treating problems related to the female reproductive system. Female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery specialists can treat diseases such as stress incontinence, urinary tract infections, and prolapse.
A female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery specialist may be able to help you if:
- You have problems with your bladder or bowel control (incontinence)
- You have pain during sex or during urination
Andrology Specialist
Andrology specialists are also known as urologists. They treat male infertility and erectile dysfunction, as well as conditions that affect the male reproductive system. Andrology specialists can be board-certified in both urology and reproductive medicine or just in urology.
Urogynecologist
Urogynecologists specialize in pelvic floor disorders, which include urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse (including rectum and uterus), and sexual dysfunction. This can be a primary care provider or a specialist who has additional training after medical school.
Urogynecologists may work with other specialists like urology and gynaecology specialists, as well as physical therapists and occupational therapists to provide comprehensive treatment for patients with these conditions. A urogynecologist may also work with urology specialists to treat bladder problems due to an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer that causes trouble emptying the bladder completely when urinating.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, the different types of urologists and how to find a urologist near me. If you have any questions about which type is right for you, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor!
