Urology

FAQs

• Q. Do urologists perform circumcisions? Does circumcision require anesthesia?
  A. Yes, urologists can perform circumcisions on infants, children and adults. Anesthesia is oftentimes used for circumcisions. Please talk to your urologist for more information.
• Q. Do the urologists perform vasectomies?
  A. Because St. Mary’s hospital is a ministry of the Catholic Church; the urologists do not perform vasectomies here. If you are interested in finding out more about a vasectomy, our urologists can refer you to the appropriate physician for more information.
• Q. My husband had a vasectomy and now we would like to have children. Can a vasectomy be reversed?
  A. Yes, vasectomy reversals are becoming more common. Although there are no guarantees of a successful pregnancy after a vasectomy reversal, we have had good success rates with them. Please call one of our urologists to discuss your options for a vasectomy reversal.
• Q. I think I have a urinary tract infection. What should I do?
  A. Please contact a urologist and speak with a nurse regarding your symptoms. Generally speaking, you will be asked to make an appointment to come in to the office at which time your urine will be examined and if necessary, an antibiotic will be ordered for you.
• Q. What is a varicocele?
  A. A Varicocele is a dilated (enlarged) group of veins in the scrotum. Just like some people have dilated or "varicose" veins in their legs, some men have dilated veins in their scrotum. The dilated veins are filled with excess blood.
• Q. I was referred to a urologist by my gynecologist/pediatrician/primary care physician. Will you work with him or her in managing my care?
  A. Of course. All the urologists in Decatur have excellent relationships with the physicians in the Decatur area and are able to coordinate your care with your primary care physician, gynecologist, pediatrician or other specialist.
• Q. Do all urology conditions require surgery?
  A. No, not all urology conditions require surgery although all urologists are trained in surgery.
• Q. If I need surgery, will I need to see a separate surgeon?
  A. No, all urologists are also specially trained in surgery for all male urinary, genital and reproductive conditions as well as all urinary diseases among females. This includes conditions and diseases in pediatric patients as well.