Men often avoid going to the doctor, especially when it comes to issues in the genital area. However, it’s essential to seek medical care if something doesn’t feel right. While some symptoms can indicate serious conditions, many issues are easily treatable. Most people find that a visit to the urologist isn’t as intimidating as they expected.
### When Should You See a Urologist?
You should consider scheduling an appointment if you experience any of the following:
– **Changes in urination:** Difficulty urinating, frequent urination (day or night), blood in the urine, urinary incontinence, or pain while urinating could indicate issues such as an enlarged prostate, a urinary tract infection, scar tissue in the urinary tract, or, in rare cases, cancer.
– **Family history:** If prostate, bladder, or kidney cancers run in your family, talk to your primary care doctor about whether you should see a urologist for screening.
– **Kidney stones:** Signs of kidney stones warrant evaluation.
– **Sexual health concerns:** Erectile dysfunction or issues like Peyronie’s disease (penile curvature) should be addressed by a specialist.
– **Low testosterone:** If you need evaluation and treatment for low testosterone levels (low T).
– **Male genital concerns:** Problems with the foreskin, noticeable lumps or masses in the testicles, sores, lesions, or any genital pain should be checked out.
– **Vasectomy:** If you’re considering this procedure for permanent contraception.
– **Elevated PSA levels:** A higher-than-normal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level for your age is another reason to see a urologist.
### Preparing for Your Visit
You don’t need to do much ahead of time. It’s helpful to bring an updated medical history, a list of any medications or supplements you’re taking, and results from any recent tests. Taking a shower before your appointment is a good idea since the doctor may need to examine the genital area.
### Will You Need to Provide a Urine Sample?
In most cases, yes. Doctors often check a urine sample during urology visits, especially if you have urinary concerns. However, if the visit is about a vasectomy or certain sexual health issues, a sample may not be needed. Still, it’s best to arrive prepared to give one.
### What Will the Doctor Ask?
The questions during your visit will depend on your specific concerns. Be ready to discuss your urinary symptoms, family history of urologic conditions, and your health goals. You might also be asked about your bowel habits since bladder and bowel functions are closely connected.
If surgery could be part of your treatment plan, the doctor will discuss your past surgeries, any anesthesia concerns, risk factors, and medications like blood thinners that might affect surgery or recovery.
### What Happens During the Exam?
The physical exam varies based on your symptoms. For men with urination issues or elevated PSA levels, a prostate exam is typically recommended. The digital rectal exam (DRE) allows the doctor to check for abnormalities in the prostate, like nodules or firmness that could indicate cancer. The procedure is quick, and while it might feel uncomfortable, it’s not usually painful.
For issues like blood in the urine, the doctor may use a small flexible camera to examine your bladder and urethra. This procedure is done in-office with local anesthesia and takes less than 30 seconds.
If there are concerns about serious conditions, like cancer, the doctor will explain any additional tests or evaluations that might be necessary.
### What Happens Next?
Your treatment plan will depend on your diagnosis. Many urologic issues are treatable with medication or, in some cases, surgery. Your doctor will guide you through the available options based on your specific needs.
### The Takeaway
If you’re experiencing problems with urination, sexual health, or other concerns involving the genitals, it’s important to see a urologist. Knowing what to expect – from questions about your health history to potential tests or exams – can help ease any anxiety about the visit. Many conditions are manageable with proper care, so addressing them sooner rather than later is the best course of action.