Bladder problems are one of those things you probably don’t discuss with your bestie. But as an important part of your overall wellness, bladder health is an important topic to talk about – with the right specialist. And while discussing your bathroom habits with a stranger won’t be high on your bucket list, finding the right specialist for your bladder health issues can mean the difference between managing your condition and letting it manage you.

Here are some tips to help you add the right specialist to your healthcare team.

Start with your GP.

Your Primary Doctor is always a good place to start addressing health concerns. They should be familiar with your medical history, which can help diagnose – or rule out – the source of your bladder health issues. Your existing relationship, too, can make it easier to discuss sensitive topics like incontinence or bladder leaks with your GP.

If you have concerns about your bladder health, schedule a visit with your GP. But keep in mind that, while a good place to start, your primary doctor may not be the end of your bladder care treatment. GPs typically have a broad overview of medical knowledge, and they may be unequipped to handle complex bladder conditions. Specialists, on the other hand, focus their energy on one specific area, which allows them to keep up with the latest research and technologies available to treat your bladder issues.

Ask for a referral.

Don’t be afraid to ask your GP to refer you to a specialist. It is your right to request a different provider, whether because you want a second opinion, are unhappy with your care, or need more specialized treatment. A good rule of thumb is to think in threes – if you haven’t received a diagnosis or proper treatment after three visits, it’s time to consider seeing a specialist.

Seek the right specialist.

The bladder is a complex organ, and there is no single “bladder specialist”. Instead, there are a number of specialists you can visit depending on your specific condition. The most common specialists for bladder health concerns include:

  • A urologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions of the urinary system. They can help with various bladder health concerns, including urinary incontinence, recurring infections, bladder cancer, and more.
  • Many women experience bladder issues during and after pregnancy and menopause. Gynecologists, which specialize in the female reproductive system, can help with bladder problems caused by these factors.
  • Urogynecologists are subspecialists that focus on pelvic health conditions and urinary system issues in females. They are trained to help with conditions like incontinence, bladder prolapse, UTIs, and other pelvic-related conditions.
  • Physical Therapist. A physical therapist can help you strengthen the muscles of your pelvic floor to aid in bladder control.

Try again.

Specialists, like all healthcare providers, have different demeanors and treatment styles. Don’t be afraid to try your search again if the first specialist you visit doesn’t meet your expectations. Your treatment will go much smoother with a specialist you trust and enjoy working with at the helm.