Urinary problems are one of the health complaints that often occur in women, but unfortunately are often ignored or considered normal. Many women experience symptoms such as pain or burning when urinating, urinating too often especially at night (nocturia), a feeling of incomplete urination, or even difficulty holding urine resulting in symptoms of bedwetting (urinary incontinence).
These symptoms can occur due to various causes, ranging from urinary tract infections, bladder muscle disorders, irritation, to more complex conditions such as urinary tract stones, pelvic organ prolapse, or even tumors in the urinary tract. However, not all women realize that these conditions are within the scope of expertise of a urologist, who specifically treats disorders of the urinary system and lower reproductive organs, including in women.
Consult a Doctor About Urination Problems
One of the main reasons why women need to consult a urologist when experiencing problems urinating is to get a proper and thorough diagnosis. Many urinary tract complaints have similar symptoms but have different causes, so their treatment cannot be generalized. For example, frequent urination can occur due to urinary tract infections, overactive bladder , or nerve disorders.
Only with a proper medical evaluation, including a medical history interview, physical examination, urine tests, and other ancillary tests such as ultrasound or urodynamics, can a urologist determine the exact cause of the symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. Incorrect or delayed treatment can not only make symptoms worse, but can also increase the risk of complications, including kidney damage, spreading infection, or a decrease in overall quality of life.
Urination Problems in Women
In addition, it is important to know that some conditions that cause urinary disorders are chronic and progressive, one of which is bedwetting (urinary incontinence), which not only causes physical discomfort, but also has a major emotional and social impact.
Many women feel embarrassed, withdraw from socializing, and experience a loss of self-confidence due to this problem. In fact, with proper medical treatment, most cases of incontinence can be controlled or even cured through a combination of behavioral therapy, pelvic floor muscle physiotherapy, medications, or certain medical procedures. The same thing also applies to urinary tract infections that often recur, this condition can be prevented with the right strategy.
Check with a Urologist
Another common misconception is that urologists only treat male patients, especially those with prostate problems or erectile dysfunction. In fact, in practice, urologists also treat many female patients.
Urologists have a subspecialization in female urology , which specifically deals with disorders related to the bladder, urethra, and pelvic floor muscles in women. In other words, women do not need to feel hesitant or inappropriate to consult a urologist. In fact, by consulting a medical professional who has competence in this field, treatment can be carried out more accurately and comprehensively.
Prevent Serious Complications and Get Checked
Urinary tract health is an important part of overall health. Urinary problems are not something to be tolerated or hidden. In fact, the sooner you seek medical help, the greater your chances of effectively resolving the problem.
Therefore, if you or someone close to you experiences unusual urination symptoms, which last a long time, or interfere with daily activities, do not delay in consulting a urologist. This action is not only about treating symptoms, but also an important step in maintaining quality of life, long-term health, and preventing serious complications in the future.
Article written by dr. Faisal Abdi Matondang, Sp.U (Urology Surgery Specialist Doctor, EMC Pulomas Hospital).