There is a common belief that the purview of urologists is limited to the male anatomy. In dealing with the penis, prostate, and other portions of the male reproductive tract, urologists are essentially “gynecologists for men,” right?
Wrong. Urologists treat both men and women and there are many situations when a woman should check in with a urologist instead of a gynecologist. Barbara M. Chubak, MD, Assistant Professor, Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, explains what a urologist really does and why women should book an appointment.
What is a urologist?
Urologists specialize in the urinary tract and surrounding organs—including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra—as well as external genitalia encompassing the clitoris, vulva, vaginal vestibule, and introitus (the opening that leads to the vaginal canal). Gynecologists, by contrast, treat the female reproductive organs.
Additionally, urologists are both physicians and surgeons. Treatment with medicine or surgery is used as most appropriate for the disease and the patient.
So what kind of doctor should I see if I have a urinary tract infection?
A routine urinary tract infection can be managed by your primary care physician. However, if you get more than three UTIs per year or the UTI does not go away after antibiotics, it’s best to consult a urologist. In addition, the following serious symptoms definitely warrant a visit to a urologist:
- Blood in the urine
- Gravel or stones in the urine
- Increased or decreased urinary frequency or urgency
- Waking at night to urinate
- Difficulty getting the urine out or difficulty holding it in (i.e. urinary incontinence)
What female-specific concerns may bring me to a urologist?
A urologist can help with several common bladder issues that affect women following pregnancy, such as:
- Incontinence, or urine leakage
- Pelvic floor dysfunction, the inability to control the muscles supporting the bladder, vagina, and rectum
- Pelvic organ prolapse, the drooping of any of the pelvic floor organs, including the bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel, and rectum
Additionally, if you are experiencing sexual dysfunction such as pain with sexual activity, lack of genital arousal, or lack of pleasure with sexual activity, a urologist may be able to help.
Barbara M Chubak, MD
Assistant Professor, Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Dr. Chubak provides general urological care. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunction for all patients, regardless of sex, gender, orientation, or congenital condition. Dr. Chubak is particularly committed to addressing the sexual health needs of women and other populations who have been historically marginalized and underserved.
