Your urinary and reproductive health are essential to your overall well-being, yet issues related to these systems are often ignored or misunderstood. Whether it’s due to embarrassment or simply not knowing where to turn, many people delay seeking help. That’s where a urologist comes in.
At AO Multispecialty Clinic in Augusta, GA, our experienced team of urologists is dedicated to helping you manage conditions that affect the kidneys, bladder, urinary tract, and male reproductive organs. In this article, we’ll break down what urologists do, when to see one, and how their care can make a significant difference in your health.
What Does a Urologist Do?
A urologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the urinary tract in both men and women, and the male reproductive system. The urinary tract includes the:
- Kidneys (filter waste from the blood)
- Ureters (carry urine to the bladder)
- Bladder (stores urine)
- Urethra (passes urine out of the body)
For men, urologists also treat issues involving the prostate, testes, penis, and related structures. From common problems like urinary tract infections to more serious concerns like kidney stones and prostate cancer, urologists are trained to provide both medical and surgical care.
When Should You See a Urologist?
It’s not always easy to know when a trip to a urologist is warranted. However, certain symptoms and conditions should not be ignored. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to make an appointment:
- Frequent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are particularly common in women but can also affect men. While an occasional UTI can be treated by your primary care provider, repeated infections may require a urologist to investigate underlying causes and recommend long-term solutions.
- Urinary Incontinence or Frequent Urination
If you’re experiencing a sudden urge to urinate, frequent bathroom visits, or urine leakage, these symptoms could be signs of an overactive bladder or other urological disorders. Urologists can diagnose the issue and offer treatment options ranging from medications to minimally invasive procedures.
- Pain or Burning During Urination
This symptom may indicate a UTI, bladder inflammation, or sexually transmitted infection. A urologist can conduct appropriate testing to determine the cause and relieve the discomfort.
- Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
Blood in your urine is never normal and should always be evaluated. It could signal anything from a minor infection to bladder or kidney cancer. Early diagnosis is key.
- Kidney Stones
Severe pain in your back, side, or lower abdomen could be a sign of kidney stones. A urologist can confirm the diagnosis using imaging tests and recommend treatment options including medication, dietary changes, or procedures to remove the stones.
- Prostate Issues in Men
Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), prostatitis, and prostate cancer are all conditions managed by a urologist. Symptoms may include difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, or waking up frequently at night to urinate.
- Erectile Dysfunction or Low Testosterone
A urologist can assess underlying causes of erectile dysfunction (ED) or symptoms related to low testosterone, including fatigue, mood changes, or decreased libido. Hormone testing, lifestyle modifications, and medications can help restore function and confidence.
- Infertility in Men
If you and your partner are having trouble conceiving, a urologist can evaluate potential issues such as low sperm count, varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum), or hormone imbalances.
- Testicular or Scrotal Pain and Swelling
Any discomfort, swelling, or noticeable lumps in the testicles or scrotum should be evaluated promptly. These symptoms could indicate infection, trauma, torsion, or even cancer.
Urological Health in Women
While urology is often associated with male reproductive health, many women experience urological conditions that require specialized care. Common reasons for women to see a urologist include:
- Recurrent UTIs
- Interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder pain)
- Urinary incontinence
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
At AO Multispecialty Clinic, our urology team works with female patients to address these sensitive conditions with compassion and expertise.
Urology and Aging
As we get older, it’s common to experience changes in urinary and reproductive health. For men, the prostate may enlarge, leading to urinary issues. For women, childbirth and menopause can contribute to incontinence and pelvic floor weakness.
Routine evaluations by a urologist can help identify age-related changes early and offer interventions to maintain your health and comfort.
How Urologists Work with Other Specialists
Urological health often intersects with other areas of medicine. At AO Multispecialty Clinic, our urologists collaborate closely with other specialists to provide holistic and integrated care.
Primary Care Providers
Many urological issues are first noticed during a routine checkup. Your primary care doctor may refer you to a urologist for further evaluation or treatment. This coordinated approach ensures that your overall health is managed seamlessly.
Gynecologists
For women experiencing bladder or pelvic issues, especially those related to pregnancy or menopause, urologists and gynecologists often work together. This team-based approach helps ensure all aspects of female pelvic health are addressed.
Nephrologists
When kidney function is affected by conditions like chronic kidney disease, a urologist may consult with a nephrologist to manage both structural and functional aspects of kidney health.
Oncologists
If a patient is diagnosed with urological cancer—such as bladder, prostate, or kidney cancer—the urologist often works closely with oncologists to coordinate surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the case.
This collaborative care model ensures that patients benefit from a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that addresses both symptoms and underlying causes.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Many urological conditions are manageable or even reversible—especially when caught early. Ignoring the signs can lead to chronic pain, infection, or more serious complications down the road. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort, noticing unusual symptoms, or simply want to stay ahead of your health, a visit to the urologist can offer clarity and peace of mind.
Let AO Multispecialty Clinic Help
At AO Multispecialty Clinic in Augusta, our board-certified urologists are here to help you take charge of your urinary and reproductive health. We offer advanced diagnostics, effective treatments, and compassionate care tailored to your needs. You don’t have to live with discomfort or uncertainty.
Schedule Your Urology Appointment Today
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big problem. Contact AO Multispecialty Clinic to schedule your consultation with one of our urology experts. Call us at (706) 736-1830 or visit https://www.aomsc.com to request an appointment online.
Your health is our priority—let us help you protect it.
