What Is a General Urologist?
A general urologist is a surgeon who specializes in the urinary system and male reproductive organs. After completing medical school and a five- to six-year surgical residency focused entirely on urology, a general urologist is trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions affecting the kidneys, bladder, ureters, urethra, prostate, and male genitalia. General urologists are the most common type of urologist and are often the first specialist you will see for any urinary or reproductive concern.
What Conditions Does a General Urologist Treat?
- Enlarged prostate (BPH) causing difficulty urinating, weak stream, or frequent urination
- Blood in the urine (hematuria) — evaluation and workup
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs), including recurrent infections
- Overactive bladder and urgency
- Urinary retention (inability to fully empty the bladder)
- Bladder stones
- Testicular pain, hydrocele (fluid around the testicle), and varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Circumcision and foreskin problems (phimosis)
- Vasectomy (male sterilization)
- Genital skin conditions and lesions
- General urologic evaluations and second opinions
What Procedures Does a General Urologist Perform?
General urologists perform a broad range of office and surgical procedures, including cystoscopy (a camera exam of the bladder), prostate procedures for BPH (such as TURP, GreenLight laser, UroLift, and Rezūm), bladder stone removal, hydrocele and varicocele repair, vasectomy, circumcision, and catheter management. They also perform kidney removal for non-cancer reasons and scrotal surgeries.
Who Should See a General Urologist?
If you have any urinary symptom — trouble urinating, going too often, blood in your urine, pain, or a concern about your kidneys, bladder, prostate, or genitals — a general urologist is an excellent starting point. If your condition requires more specialized care, a general urologist can refer you to the appropriate subspecialist.