Common Conditions Treated
by Urologists
Urologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that urologists help patients manage:
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an urologist.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive medical history including urinary symptoms, sexual health history, and relevant family history
- Review of current medications, previous surgeries, and lifestyle factors
- Physical examination including abdominal exam, genital exam, and digital rectal exam (for prostate evaluation in men)
- Urinalysis to check for blood, infection, or other abnormalities
- Discussion of specific symptoms, their severity, and how they affect quality of life
- Review of any previous imaging, lab work, or urological procedures
- First urology visit typically lasts 30-60 minutes
Diagnosis & Testing
- Urinalysis and urine culture: Detect infections, blood, and other abnormalities in urine
- Blood tests: PSA for prostate screening, kidney function tests, hormone levels, tumor markers
- Imaging studies: CT scan, ultrasound (kidney, bladder, scrotal), MRI for detailed evaluation of urological structures
- Cystoscopy: Direct visualization of the bladder and urethra using a thin, flexible scope
- Urodynamic testing: Measures bladder pressure, flow rates, and function to evaluate incontinence or voiding problems
- Prostate biopsy: Tissue sampling to diagnose prostate cancer when PSA is elevated or exam is abnormal
- Semen analysis: Evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology for fertility concerns
Treatment Options
- Medications: Alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors for BPH, antibiotics for infections, anticholinergics for overactive bladder, PDE5 inhibitors for ED
- Minimally invasive procedures: Shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stones, UroLift or Rezum for BPH, Botox injections for bladder conditions
- Endoscopic surgery: Ureteroscopy for kidney stones, TURP for BPH, TURBT for bladder tumors - performed through natural openings without external incisions
- Laparoscopic and robotic surgery: Prostatectomy, nephrectomy (kidney removal), and other major surgeries with smaller incisions and faster recovery
- Open surgery: Traditional surgical approaches for complex cases or large tumors
- Lifestyle modifications: Dietary changes for kidney stone prevention, pelvic floor exercises for incontinence, fluid management
- Regular surveillance: Monitoring of slow-growing cancers or conditions that don't require immediate intervention
- Follow-up care: Regular monitoring to assess treatment effectiveness and detect recurrence
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your urologist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Urologist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an urologist.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certified by the American Board of Urology (ABU)
- Completed accredited urology residency training (5-6 years)
- Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Fellowship training in relevant subspecialty if needed (urologic oncology, female pelvic medicine, pediatric urology, male infertility)
- Hospital privileges at reputable medical centers for surgical procedures
- Member of professional organizations like American Urological Association (AUA) or Society of Urologic Oncology
Important Considerations
- Subspecialty expertise matching your condition (oncologist for cancer, female pelvic medicine specialist for incontinence, andrologist for male fertility)
- Surgical volume and experience with specific procedures you may need
- Access to advanced technology (robotic surgery, laser lithotripsy, minimally invasive options)
- Hospital affiliation and quality - look for centers with good surgical outcomes
- Accepts your insurance plan and is in-network
- Office location and accessibility for regular visits and procedures
- Availability for urgent issues and after-hours coverage
- Communication style and willingness to discuss all treatment options
- Experience treating patients with your specific condition or demographics
- Patient reviews and recommendations from other patients or referring physicians
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple urologists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing an urologist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$150-$350
Follow-up Visit
$75-$200
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover urology visits with specialist copay (typically $30-$75)
- Diagnostic tests are usually covered when medically necessary, though prior authorization may be required for advanced imaging
- Surgical procedures typically require pre-authorization from insurance
- Outpatient procedures may have different coverage than inpatient surgeries
- Many plans require referral from primary care physician for specialist coverage
- Emergency urological care (acute kidney stone, urinary retention) is typically covered without prior authorization
- PSA screening coverage varies by plan and patient age/risk factors
- Some treatments for ED may have limited or no coverage depending on the plan
- Vasectomy is often covered as it prevents more costly pregnancies
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers medically necessary urology visits, diagnostic tests, and procedures. Medicare typically covers 80% of approved costs after the Part B deductible is met. Prostate cancer screening (PSA test and digital rectal exam) is covered annually for men over 50. Surgical procedures may be covered under Part A (inpatient) or Part B (outpatient). Medicare Advantage plans may have different coverage and cost-sharing structures.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your urologist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Urologist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an urologist:
What is causing my urological symptoms, and what tests do I need to determine the diagnosis?
What are all my treatment options, including watchful waiting, medications, and procedures?
If surgery is recommended, what technique will you use and what is your experience with this procedure?
What are the potential risks and side effects of the recommended treatment?
How will this condition or treatment affect my sexual function or fertility?
What lifestyle modifications can help manage or prevent my condition?
How often will I need follow-up appointments and surveillance testing?
What symptoms should prompt me to seek immediate medical attention?
Are there any newer or less invasive treatment options I should consider?
If I have cancer, what is the stage and prognosis, and should I get a second opinion?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
Urologist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs. Here's how urologists compare to similar specialists:
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about urologists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and the following authoritative organizations:
Last updated: December 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a urologist and a nephrologist?
Both specialists treat kidney conditions, but they have different approaches and training. A urologist is a surgeon who treats conditions of the entire urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra) and male reproductive system, addressing issues like kidney stones, urinary blockages, and cancers surgically. A nephrologist is an internal medicine specialist who focuses on medical (non-surgical) kidney disease, including chronic kidney disease, dialysis management, and kidney failure. For kidney stones, a urologist typically removes them; for chronic kidney disease, a nephrologist manages the condition. Patients often see both specialists depending on their needs.
Do I need a referral to see a urologist?
It depends on your insurance plan. HMO plans typically require a referral from your primary care physician to see a urologist for coverage. PPO and POS plans often allow you to see specialists without a referral, though you may pay lower copays with a referral. Medicare doesn't require referrals for specialists. Even if not required, getting a referral can be helpful as your primary doctor can share relevant test results and medical history with the urologist.
What should I expect during a prostate exam?
A prostate exam, also called a digital rectal exam (DRE), is a brief examination where the urologist inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland. The prostate is located just in front of the rectum, so this is the most direct way to assess its size, shape, and texture. The exam takes only about 10-15 seconds and may cause brief discomfort but should not be painful. It's an important screening tool that, combined with PSA blood testing, helps detect prostate abnormalities including cancer, BPH, and prostatitis.
How are kidney stones treated?
Treatment depends on stone size, location, and composition. Small stones (under 5mm) often pass on their own with increased fluids and pain management. Larger stones may require intervention: Shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) uses sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can pass naturally. Ureteroscopy involves passing a thin scope through the urinary tract to visualize and laser-fragment stones. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is used for very large stones, accessing the kidney through a small incision in the back. Your urologist will recommend the best approach based on your specific situation and work with you on prevention strategies.
Is blood in urine always serious?
Blood in urine (hematuria) should always be evaluated by a urologist, but it doesn't always indicate a serious condition. Common causes include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, enlarged prostate, vigorous exercise, or certain medications. However, hematuria can also be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer, especially in older adults and smokers. Even if you see blood only once, or if it's microscopic (detected only on urinalysis), you should have a complete urological evaluation including cystoscopy and imaging to rule out serious causes. Early detection of urological cancers significantly improves outcomes.
What are my options for treating an enlarged prostate (BPH)?
BPH treatment ranges from watchful waiting to surgery, depending on symptom severity. Lifestyle modifications include limiting fluids before bed and reducing caffeine and alcohol. Medications include alpha blockers (relax prostate muscles for better urine flow) and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (shrink the prostate over time). Minimally invasive procedures include UroLift (lifts prostate tissue), Rezum (steam therapy), and prostatic artery embolization. Surgical options include TURP (transurethral resection), laser procedures, and simple prostatectomy for very large prostates. Your urologist will help determine the best approach based on prostate size, symptom severity, and your preferences.
Is a vasectomy reversible?
Vasectomy reversal (vasovasostomy or vasoepididymostomy) is possible but not guaranteed to restore fertility. Success rates depend on how long ago the vasectomy was performed, the surgical technique used, and other factors. Reversals performed within 10 years of vasectomy have the highest success rates (up to 90% patency, 50-70% pregnancy rates). Longer intervals have lower success rates. The reversal is microsurgery performed by specially trained urologists. It's typically outpatient surgery taking 2-4 hours. Because reversal isn't always successful, vasectomy should be considered a permanent form of contraception when making the initial decision.
When should men start prostate cancer screening?
The American Urological Association recommends shared decision-making about PSA screening starting at age 55 for average-risk men. High-risk men (African Americans, those with family history of prostate cancer) should discuss screening starting at age 40-45. Screening typically includes a PSA blood test and may include digital rectal exam. The decision to screen should involve a discussion about the potential benefits (early cancer detection) and risks (false positives, overdiagnosis, potential for unnecessary treatment). Screening is generally not recommended for men over 70 or those with less than 10-15 years life expectancy.
Can urinary incontinence be cured?
Many cases of urinary incontinence can be significantly improved or cured with appropriate treatment. Success depends on the type and cause of incontinence. Stress incontinence in women often responds well to pelvic floor exercises, and many patients are cured with surgical procedures like mid-urethral slings. Urge incontinence may be managed effectively with behavioral therapy, medications, Botox, or nerve stimulation. Male incontinence after prostate surgery often improves over time with pelvic floor exercises, and artificial urinary sphincters can restore continence in persistent cases. The first step is a proper evaluation to determine the type and cause, as treatment varies significantly.
What lifestyle changes can help prevent kidney stones?
The most important prevention strategy is drinking enough fluids to produce at least 2.5 liters of urine daily - primarily water. Dietary modifications depend on stone type: for calcium oxalate stones, moderate oxalate intake (spinach, nuts, chocolate), maintain adequate calcium from food sources, and limit sodium and animal protein. For uric acid stones, limit purine-rich foods (red meat, organ meats, shellfish). General recommendations include maintaining a healthy weight, limiting sodium to less than 2,300mg daily, and eating adequate fruits and vegetables. After stone analysis, your urologist may recommend specific dietary changes or medications based on your stone composition.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.
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