Frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom or subtle changes in urination may appear minor but could signal underlying health problems. Dr. Drew Durtschi, a genitourinary medicine specialist at University of Utah Health, noted that over time, the bladder can lose its ability to empty safely if issues are ignored.
Regular visits to a urologist help detect problems early through interventions such as medication or surgery to reduce obstructions.
Urology focuses on four primary areas: the prostate, reproductive organs, kidneys, and bladder. The American Cancer Society suggests men should begin routine urological checkups between ages 40 and 50, though those with a family history of prostate cancer should start at age 40 or sooner if symptoms appear.
Annual visits are described as simple procedures. Patients are encouraged to arrive with a full bladder, allowing professionals to perform uroflow tests to evaluate stream intensity and bladder ultrasounds to check emptying efficiency.
Men should discuss specific symptoms with their doctors, including frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, weak or interrupted streams, and pelvic pain. Other important signs include blood in urine or semen, recurrent urinary tract infections, and unusual swelling in the testicular area.
Specialized care available through urologists includes treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with medications or surgical procedures like Urolift, Rezum, TURP, or HOLEP. Additionally, specialists provide pelvic floor therapy for incontinence and support for male infertility, which accounts for 20 to 35 percent of infertility cases.
For prostate cancer screening, the American Urological Association recommends PSA blood tests every two to four years for men aged 50 to 69. Dr. Durtschi emphasized that because prostate cancer often progresses slowly, finding a balance between treatment and active monitoring is essential.
At University of Utah Health, urologists monitor PSA trends and utilize advanced tools like MRI and urine DNA testing. The facility also collaborates with surgeons and radiation oncologists at the Huntsman Cancer Institute to treat indicated cases.
