Complete care for urologic diseases and conditions
Our care teams are here to give you the right care at the right time. We offer care for many diseases and conditions of the urinary system, including the:
- Bladder
- Kidney (organ that filters blood)
- Prostate (a gland in the male body that creates sperm)
We also offer care for:
- Men’s sexual health, including erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs, an illness you get from germs)
We’re here to help with wellness options and all urology problems.
What to expect at a urology appointment
Your urology appointment may include your Optum doctor doing some of the following:
- A physical exam
- An imaging test, such as an ultrasound, CT scan or X-ray
- Getting your medical history
- Talking about your symptoms and care plan
- Testing your blood and urine
Article
What to know about prostate cancer screenings
More than 3.3 million men in the U.S. have prostate cancer,** which is often slow growing. Discover 12 common questions, screening recommendations, test details and insights on shared decision-making with your doctor.
How does the prostate change as men age?
Learn how your prostate can change as you age and how Optum can help you live healthier. When you choose Optum, you get care that is:
- Focused on you – We take time to listen and understand
- Made easier – We help you get the care you need
- A better value – Our care helps you stay healthy and save money
Urology care FAQ
UTIs are infections that can occur in any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys, ureters and urethra. They are more common in women but can affect men as well.
Common causes of UTIs include:
- Bacteria (germs) entering the urinary tract
- Catheter use
- Certain medical conditions, including diabetes or kidney stones
- Holding urine
- Menopause (when a woman's monthly cycle stops as part of the aging process)
- Poor hygiene (not cleaning genital area properly)
- Sexual activity bringing bacteria into area
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Using products like spermicide or feminine hygiene sprays
- Weakened immune system
A UTI care plan may include:
- Antibiotic medicines that clear infections caused by bacteria
- Drinking more fluids
- Taking pain relievers, if needed
In some cases, your doctor may suggest long-term preventive antibiotics or lifestyle changes.
An enlarged prostate is also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms in men, especially as they age.
A care plan for an enlarged prostate may include:
- Drinking more fluids before bedtime
- Medicine
- Minimally invasive procedures (a surgery that uses the smallest amount of incisions needed)
You may prevent prostate issues from getting serious if you have yearly exams. Talk to your doctor about any issues you’re experiencing.
ED is the inability to have an erection for sexual activity. It can be caused by physical or psychological factors. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you think you have ED.
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain as they move through the urinary tract.
Signs or symptoms may include:
- Blood in urine
- Pain while urinating
- Severe pain in the side and back
If you have these symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as you can.
Your doctor will give you a care plan for kidney stones which may include:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Medicine to help you pass stones
- Pain management (ways to handle pain)
- Surgery to remove stones, if needed
Incontinence means not being able to start and stop urine and bowel movements. This can be caused by various factors, including:
- Age
- Childbirth
- Other medical conditions
Talk to your urologist to learn about care options for urinary incontinence.
Related urology resources
Article
Understanding bladder leaks
Talking openly about bladder leaks and other urinary issues is the first step toward a solution.
Article
Find out how prostate health changes as men age
Article
Kidneys are essential to your overall health
Article
Improving your habits with medicine can help boost your health
*Urology care services vary by location. Check with your doctor’s office or health plan for specific information.
**American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Prostate Cancer. Accessed January 22, 2025.
Optum arranges for or provides medical and other clinical services in accordance with laws in each state it operates. Physicians or providers referenced on this website are to those who are either part of independent practices or to those medical practices managed by or owned, where permitted, by Optum. In all circumstances, physicians and other licensed professionals have complete authority for all medical decision-making and patient care. Optum does not determine or set the methods, standards, or conduct of the practice of medicine or health care provided by any of the practices or their physicians or other licensed professionals.