Who are Urologists?

Physicians who are specialized in diagnosing and treating medical conditions & diseases of urinary tract and male reproductive system are Urologists. Generally, Urologists treat diseases of bladder, urethra, uterus, kidneys, and adrenal glands.

What are the qualifications of Urologists?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, the following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Urologist:

• FICS (Urology)
• MCh - Urology/Genito-Urinary Surgery
• FRCS - Urology
• Diploma in Urology
• Ph.D. - Urology
• DNB - Urology/Genito - Urinary Surgery
• MNAMS - Urology
• MCh - Urology

Why should a Urologist be consulted?

A Urologist is consulted to treat bladder problems, urinary tract infections, bladder and kidney cancer, kidney blockage, and kidney stones.

Men consult a Urologist for:

• Erectile dysfunction
• Enlarged prostate gland
• Prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer

Women consult a Urologist for:

• Problems holding urine after pregnancy
• Pelvic organ prolapse

Children need to see a Urologist if they have abnormal urinary tract problems like bedwetting.

What are the common procedures performed by a Urologist?

• Cystogram
• Post-void residual urine test
• Cystoscopy
• Urodynamic testing
• Biopsies of bladder, kidneys, to treat cancer
• Cystectomy
• Extracorporeal-shock wave lithotripsy
• Kidney transplant
• Procedure to open a blockage
• Repair a damage
• Prostatectomy
• A sling procedure
• Transurethral resection
• Transurethral needle ablation
• Ureteroscopy
• Vasectomy 

When should a Urologist be consulted?

Some of the signs include:

• Blood in urine
• Loss of bladder control
• Pain while peeing
• Pain in lower back, stomach, or groin
• Trouble having or keeping an erection
• Enlarged prostate

Are Urologists and Nephrologists the same?

Urologists and Nephrologists are medical professionals who can diagnose and treat kidney diseases and disorders. However, Nephrologist directly focuses on medical conditions related to kidney only and Urologist focuses on diseases related to urinary tract system.