The role of a urologist
Key facts
- Urologists are specialist doctors who treat problems with the urinary system.
- Urologists also treat problems with male sex organs.
- You need a referral to see a urologist.
What is a urologist?
A urologist is a specialist doctor with surgical training. They are also known as urological surgeons.
Urologists treat problems with your:
- kidneys
- ureters — the tubes connecting your kidneys to your bladder
- bladder
- urethra —the narrow tube that lets urine (wee) leave your body
- prostate
- other male reproductive organs
Urologists complete several years of specialist training after they become doctors.
When do I see a urologist?
Urologists are experts in treating a range of urinary system problems. They treat males and females, adults and children.
You may need to see a urologist for a range of different symptoms and conditions. These can include:
- problems with urination (doing a wee)
- blood in your urine
- urinary incontinence — poor bladder control
- urinary retention — not being able to empty your bladder properly
- kidney stones
- cancer of the kidney or bladder
Urologists can also treat problems specific to males, including:
- an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy)
- an inflamed or infected prostate (prostatitis)
- prostate cancer
- testicular cancer
- varicocele
- erectile dysfunction
You may see a urologist for a vasectomy, which is a permanent form of contraception (birth control) for males.
Some urologists are sub-specialists in particular areas. For example, a paediatric urologist specialises in urinary and reproductive system conditions in children.
Urologists may perform:
- robotic surgery using 3-dimensional images and computer-controlled surgical instruments
- laparoscopic surgery, which uses small incisions and special surgical tools, including miniature video cameras
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.
What should I expect during an appointment with a urologist?
Your urologist will ask about your current symptoms or condition.
They will also ask about:
- your medical and surgical history
- any medicines you take
- any allergies you have
- your family history
- your lifestyle
Your urologist may do a physical exam.
They might refer you for tests, such as:
When a diagnosis has been made, your doctor will talk with you about appropriate treatment options. When making recommendations for a treatment plan, they will ask about your treatment preferences.
What questions should I ask a urologist?
Before you go to your first appointment, note down any questions you have. You may want to ask more about your condition.
You may also want to ask:
- whether your urologist specialises in a certain area
- if any tests are needed
- about the risks and benefits of any treatments
- about the side effects of treatment
- if there are alternative treatment options
- what follow-up care is needed
- about the costs of treatment
You can always ask about anything that you are not sure about or don't understand.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.
How much will a urologist cost?
You can see a urologist at a public hospital clinic. This is covered by Medicare, so you don't need to pay anything.
It can be expensive to see private specialists. Ask about the costs when you book your appointment. You should also ask what costs Medicare will cover.
If you plan to use private health insurance, contact your health fund to find out what costs they will cover.
How do I find a urologist?
Ask your doctor, close friends or family to recommend a urologist.
You can find a urologist near you by searching the healthdirect service finder.
FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.
Do I need a referral to see a urologist?
It's important to get a referral from your GP to see a urologist in a public or private clinic.
The referral letter helps your urologist understand your condition, medical history and past test results.
After you see the urologist, they will update your GP about your visit and condition. They will let your GP know about test results and treatments that are recommended.
Urologists also treat people with urinary system problems admitted to hospital via hospital emergency departments.
Resources and support
The Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand has information about urologists and some of the conditions they treat.
Kidney Health Australia has information and support for people with kidney disease. There is specific information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
Cancer Council Australia has information on cancers affecting the urinary system and support services — phone 13 11 20.
The Continence Foundation of Australia has information and support for those with urinary incontinence — phone 1800 33 00 66 to speak to a nurse continence specialist.
Healthy Male has information on male health conditions and support — phone 1300 303 878.
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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Last reviewed: November 2024
