When we think of urologists, we may think of them as the OB/GYN equivalent for men. It is true that urologists specialize in disorders of the male reproductive organs, including erectile dysfunction and prostate cancer, but these medical specialists also advocate for women as well.
In other words, while some conditions can be treated by your family doctor, others may need to be addressed by a urologist. While some people think that a urologist is only for men, visiting these experts is also an important step for women’s health. They can provide expert advice and help you make well-informed decisions relating to the health of your urinary and reproductive systems. Yet some conditions can be treated by your family doctor, so how do women know when it’s time to see a urologist?
Little did we know, there is a whole subspecialty within urology devoted to women’s health. With women, urologists cover a range of issues that are incredibly common after pregnancy and other issues that continue throughout life, mainly incontinence, pelvic pain, and urinary tract infections.
You may be wondering – if I am a woman, don’t I go to my OB/GYN for guidance? The answer is usually yes, but if your problem surpasses a gynecologist’s level of expertise, or if the issues escalates or becomes chronic, your gynecologist will usually call a urologist, as they are specialists that can further evaluate the problem.
Woman see urologists for the following problems:
- Menopause: When hormones start changing, woman will expect to see changes. The pelvic floor, bladder, urethra, and vagina are all very sensitive to declining estrogen.
- Incontinence and urinary problems: While an overactive bladder means you feel the need to urinate frequently, incontinence is the inability to control your urinary functions.
- Pelvic pain (Pelvic Organ Prolapse): When you have pain in the general pelvic region—which includes the bowel, bladder, uterus, and ovaries—your urologist can examine your symptoms further after the gynecologist to provide treatment.
- UTI’s (Urinary Tract Infection): Almost all women will experience a urinary tract infection at some point in their lives. Infections are caused by bacteria in the vaginal walls, which can cause a pain or burning sensation while urinating.
- Sexual Dysfunction: Women can also experience sexual dysfunction like men do. Urologists can provide ways for women to enhance their sexual drive, and address further complications.
To learn more about what a urologist can do for woman, call Ironwood Urology at (480) 961-2323 to request an appointment with Dr. Desi Avila, or request an appointment online.
