Medical Articles · 6 min read
When Should You See a Urologist?
In brief
You should see a urologist if you have blood in your urine, kidney stones, recurrent urinary infections, persistent urinary symptoms, bladder leakage, an abnormal PSA result or concerns about men's health. Some symptoms — such as being unable to pass urine or kidney pain with fever — need emergency care.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Atip Chatsudthipong, MD on
Written by Editorial teamPublished Updated
What does a urologist do?
A urologist is a doctor and surgeon who specialises in the urinary tract of women and men — the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra — and in the male reproductive organs, including the prostate and testes. Urologists diagnose conditions, prescribe medical treatment, and perform procedures ranging from cystoscopy to complex surgery.
Urology is not only men's health. Women commonly see urologists for urinary infections, kidney stones, bladder leakage and blood in the urine.
What signs mean you should see a urologist?
- Any blood in the urine — visible, or found on a urine test
- Kidney stones, whether current, recurrent or found incidentally on a scan
- Urinary tract infections that keep returning, or any UTI in a man
- A weak stream, straining, frequent urination or getting up at night — common with prostate enlargement
- Bladder leakage or sudden urgency
- A raised or rising PSA result, or questions about prostate cancer screening
- A lump, swelling or persistent ache in the testicle or scrotum
- Erectile difficulties or other men's health concerns
- Pain in the side, back or lower abdomen that you think may be related to the kidneys or bladder
Which urological symptoms are emergencies?
Go to an emergency department or call for help (1669 or 1378 within Thailand) if you have:
- Inability to pass urine, especially with lower abdominal pain
- Kidney or side pain together with fever or chills
- Sudden, severe pain in a testicle — this may be testicular torsion, which needs surgery within hours
- An erection lasting more than four hours
- Heavy bleeding or clots in the urine, or feeling faint
What happens at a first urology consultation?
Your urologist will ask about your symptoms, medical history and medicines, and will usually examine you. Depending on the concern, tests may include a urine test, blood tests, an ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder, a urine flow test, or further imaging. You should leave with a clear explanation of the likely cause, the options available and the next steps.
How should you prepare for a urology appointment?
- Write down your symptoms, when they started and what makes them better or worse
- Bring a list of all medicines and supplements, including blood thinners
- Bring previous test results, scans (images, not only reports) and letters from other doctors
- For urinary frequency or leakage, keep a bladder diary for three days
- Arrive with a comfortably full bladder if a urine flow test may be needed — check when you book
- Prepare the questions you would like to ask
International patients may wish to contact Bumrungrad's Medical Coordination Office (opens in a new tab) for help with scheduling, records and travel arrangements.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a urologist in Bangkok?
Private hospitals in Bangkok generally allow you to book a specialist appointment directly. If you have insurance, check whether your insurer requires a referral or pre-authorisation.
Do women see urologists?
Yes. Urologists treat urinary tract conditions in women, including urinary infections, kidney stones, bladder leakage, overactive bladder and blood in the urine.
References
- 1.Barocas DA, et al. Microhematuria: AUA/SUFU Guideline. J Urol. 2020;204(4):778–786. (opens in a new tab)
- 2.Anger J, et al. Recurrent Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections in Women: AUA/CUA/SUFU Guideline. J Urol. 2019;202(2):282–289. (opens in a new tab)
- 3.Lerner LB, et al. Management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Attributed to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: AUA Guideline Part I — Initial Work-up and Medical Management. J Urol. 2021;206(4):806–817. (opens in a new tab)
- 4.National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Kidney Stones. (opens in a new tab)
This information is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified doctor. If you have severe symptoms, seek emergency care (in Thailand, call 1669). See our medical disclaimer.