What Is a Pediatric Urologist?

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A pediatric urologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating urinary tract and genital problems in infants, children, and adolescents. These specialists are trained to manage conditions involving the kidneys, bladder, ureters, urethra, and reproductive organs in children.

Because children’s bodies are still developing, pediatric urology focuses on age-appropriate, growth-sensitive care that differs significantly from adult urology.

What Does a Pediatric Urologist Do?

A pediatric urologist:

  • Diagnoses urinary and genital disorders in children

  • Manages both medical and surgical urology conditions

  • Treats congenital (present at birth) abnormalities

  • Monitors kidney and bladder development

  • Performs corrective surgeries when needed

  • Works closely with pediatricians and nephrologists

Their goal is to ensure normal urinary function, healthy kidney development, and proper genital growth.


Conditions Treated by a Pediatric Urologist

Urinary Tract Problems

  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

  • Recurrent UTIs

  • Urinary incontinence

  • Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis)

  • Poor urine stream


Kidney & Bladder Conditions

  • Hydronephrosis (swollen kidneys)

  • Vesicoureteral reflux (backflow of urine)

  • Kidney stones in children

  • Bladder dysfunction


Genital Conditions in Boys

  • Undescended testis

  • Hypospadias

  • Phimosis (tight foreskin)

  • Testicular swelling or pain


Genital Conditions in Girls

  • Urinary reflux

  • Congenital genital anomalies

  • Recurrent urinary infections


Congenital Urological Disorders

  • Abnormal urinary tract development

  • Prenatally detected kidney abnormalities


How Is a Pediatric Urologist Different from an Adult Urologist?

Pediatric Urologist Adult Urologist
Treats children only Treats adults
Focuses on growth & development Focuses on disease management
Congenital conditions common Acquired conditions common
Child-friendly approach Adult-oriented care

When Should You Take Your Child to a Pediatric Urologist?

You should consult a pediatric urologist if your child has:

  • Recurrent urinary infections

  • Difficulty or pain during urination

  • Bedwetting beyond age 6–7

  • Poor urine flow

  • Swelling or pain in genital area

  • Abnormal findings on prenatal ultrasound

  • Undescended testis or genital abnormalities

Early evaluation can prevent long-term kidney or bladder damage.


How Do Pediatric Urologists Diagnose Problems?

They may use:

  • Physical examination

  • Urine and blood tests

  • Ultrasound of kidneys and bladder

  • X-rays or specialized imaging (VCUG)

  • Prenatal scan follow-ups

Diagnosis is always child-specific and minimally invasive when possible.


Conclusion

A pediatric urologist is a specialized doctor dedicated to diagnosing and treating urinary and genital problems in children. From UTIs and bedwetting to congenital kidney and genital conditions, these specialists play a vital role in protecting a child’s long-term urinary and reproductive health.

If your child shows persistent urinary symptoms or structural concerns, timely consultation with a pediatric urologist can ensure healthy development and peace of mind.


FAQs: Pediatric Urologist

1. What age group does a pediatric urologist treat?

From newborns to adolescents (up to 18 years).

2. Do pediatric urologists perform surgery?

Yes. They perform both minor and complex urological surgeries in children.

3. Is bedwetting a urology problem?

Yes. Persistent bedwetting may require evaluation by a pediatric urologist.

4. Are pediatric urology problems common?

Yes. Many urinary and genital conditions are common and highly treatable.

5. Do all UTIs require a pediatric urologist?

Not always. Recurrent or complicated UTIs do.