Top Reasons Women Need to See a Urologist

There’s a misconception that urologists focus on men’s issues, but they handle many issues for women. Here are the top reasons why women end up in these specialists’ offices.

Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Women’s urinary tract is shorter and wider, making them more susceptible to infections. UTIs are considered recurrent if you have two or more in a 6-month period or three or more in a year. These are especially common in postmenopausal women and can be resistant to antibiotics.

Bladder issues

As important a job the bladder has, there’s also a lot that can go wrong, from bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis) and incontinence/leaking to an overactive bladder and bladder infections.

Pelvic floor issues

When the muscles in the pelvis get weak, there’s a potential for problems, including incontinence, pelvic pain, emptying disorders, and pelvic organ prolapse. Weak muscles have a harder time holding organs in place, which means the vagina, uterus, bladder and rectum could start to sag, causing bulging, pressure, and pain. Pelvic organ prolapse is much more common in women because of vaginal childbirth, and the chance of a prolapse increases with multiple deliveries, having twins or triplets, or carrying a larger than average baby.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are very common, with 1 in 10 people getting them at some point in their life. They can be very painful and often occur in those with repeated UTIs. You’re more at risk if you have conditions like obesity or diabetes, or a diet high in salt or sugar.

Sexual dysfunction

Historically thought of as a male issue, women face sexual dysfunction too, and a urologist is specially trained to help get to the root of the issue, whether it be related to pain, desire, arousal or orgasm. Hormones and medications are two main causes of issues in a woman’s sexual health.

If you notice changes in your urination or sexual health, or abdominal or pelvic pain, don’t downplay it. Talk to your doctor about what could be going on. To make an appointment with one of our providers at Premier Urology at Baton Rouge General, click here.