Urology: urinary tract and men's health

What urology treats

Urology is the medical specialty that deals with the urinary tract — kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra — in men and women, and with the male reproductive system. It covers everything from common problems, such as urinary infections, to prostate assessment, kidney stones or changes in urinary and sexual function.

Common reasons for a consultation

• Prostate check-up and PSA monitoring: prostate screening for urinary symptoms or as a routine check-up, with PSA test results read in their clinical context.
• Recurring urinary infections: investigating the causes when cystitis keeps coming back, to guide treatment and prevention.
• Urinary incontinence: stress or urge urinary leakage, a common reason for a consultation that in many cases has treatment options.
• Kidney stones: stones in the kidney or urinary tract, whether following a diagnosed episode of renal colic or for assessment and follow-up.
• Erectile dysfunction: a medical assessment of erection problems, which can sometimes also point to overall vascular health.

What the consultation involves and which tests may be requested

The first visit starts with your medical history and a physical examination focused on the reason for your consultation. Depending on the case, the urologist may request blood and urine tests, an ultrasound of the urinary tract or other imaging, as well as specific tests of urinary function. The aim is to reach a diagnosis and propose a clearly explained treatment plan, which may involve medication, lifestyle changes or, where indicated, surgery.

When to book an appointment with the urologist

It's worth booking an appointment if you notice persistent changes when urinating — stinging, urgency, needing to get up several times at night —, blood in your urine, involuntary leakage, lower back pain or discomfort in the genital area. For men, clinical guidelines recommend discussing prostate check-ups with your doctor from age 50 onwards, or earlier if there's a family history.

You can book an appointment at whichever centre suits you best; the team will guide you on the consultation that best fits your case.