When experiencing urinary issues, most women’s first thought is to schedule an appointment with their gynecologist. This is understandable, seeing as to how there is a lot of overlap between the sex organs and the urinary tract in your body. However, both urologists and gynecologists are specialists in their respective fields, and while they may share expertise, they also each offer unique services and insight. So how do you decide whether you need a urologist or a gynecologist? Here’s what you need to know.
What is a urologist?
A urologist is a specialized healthcare professional who focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases located in the urinary tract. Specifically, they focus on ailments in the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra.
However, urologists may also treat issues closely related to the urinary tract, such as reproductive organs or adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys.
Common conditions treated by urologists include:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Urinary incontinence
- Blood in the urine
- Enlarged prostate
- Bladder pain
- Cancer in the bladder, kidney, or prostate
- Erectile disfunction
- Kidney stones
Most people consider seeing a urologist when experiencing systems such as difficulty urinating, cloudy urine, pelvic pain, kidney pain, or unintentional urination.
What is a gynecologist?
Unlike a urologist, a gynecologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in female reproductive health. This includes the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and breasts.
Common reasons to see a gynecologist include getting a pap test, cancer screening, pelvic exam, blood between periods, or vaginal infections. Gynecologists may also help diagnose disorders such as endometriosis, infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or pelvic pain.
What is a urogynecologist?
While there is already some overlap between urologists and gynecologists, urogynecologists take it a step further by specializing in one field, and then taking courses and training to get experience in evaluating and treating other pelvic floor disorders such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or an overactive bladder.
Do I need a urologist or a gynecologist?
Depending on your symptoms, you may need to see either a urologist or a gynecologist. If you are experiencing issues with fertility, STIs, or hormone disorders, you should immediately consult with your gynecologist.
However, if your symptoms are related to your urinary systems, such as UTIs, kidney stones, an overactive bladder, blood in your urine, incontinence, or something similar, you should schedule an appointment with a urologist.
It is possible that once you have been examined by a professional, they may refer you to the other field (either urology or gynecology). One of the best ways to determine what you need is to schedule an initial consultation with a healthcare professional through a telemedicine program.
Telehealth appointments, like those offered by UBERDOC, allow you to discuss your symptoms and receive a recommended course of action. Consulting with a telehealth doctor may help you determine the severity of your symptoms, as well as whether you need a urologist or a gynecologist.
We offer both in-person and telemedicine appointments, so you can always get the help you need. If you’re concerned about your health, don’t wait for it to get worse. Schedule an appointment with a UBERDOC today and get the help and treatment you deserve!
