Adrenal cancer is a rare type of cancer that begins in the adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of the kidneys. These glands produce hormones that help regulate metabolism, blood pressure and other important body functions.

Symptoms of adrenal cancer can vary and may be related to hormone changes or growth of a tumor. Many adrenal gland growths are not cancer, but evaluation is important when cancer is suspected.

Care for adrenal cancer often involves coordination among specialists, including urology and oncology teams. Evaluation helps guide individualized care planning based on the type and extent of disease.

Bladder cancer begins in the tissues of the bladder, the organ that stores urine. Blood in the urine is often one of the first signs of bladder cancer and should be evaluated by a urology specialist.

Other symptoms may include changes in urination, pain with urination or pelvic discomfort. Many cases of bladder cancer are found at an early stage, when treatment options are most effective. Care is individualized based on the type and stage of cancer, overall health and personal preferences, with a focus on coordinated care from diagnosis through treatment and follow up.

Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. In some cases, the blood is visible, while in others it is found only through laboratory testing.

Hematuria is a sign of an underlying condition and may occur with or without other symptoms, such as pain or changes in urination. Because it can be associated with a range of causes — from minor issues to more serious conditions — evaluation by a urology specialist is important.

Care begins with understanding each patient’s symptoms, health history and test results. Evaluation and next steps are guided by individual findings to determine whether treatment or follow‑up is needed.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also called an enlarged prostate, is a common condition in which the prostate gland increases in size as men age. BPH is not cancer and does not increase the risk of prostate cancer.

As the prostate enlarges, it can press on the urethra and affect urine flow. Symptoms may include a weak urine stream, difficulty starting or stopping urination, frequent urination — especially at night — or the feeling that the bladder is not fully empty.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine whether symptoms are related to BPH and whether treatment is needed. Care is individualized and based on symptom severity, overall health and impact on quality of life.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the ongoing difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. It is a common condition that can affect men at different stages of life.

ED may occur on its own or be related to other health conditions that affect blood flow, nerve function or hormone levels. Symptoms can vary in severity and may change over time.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps identify contributing factors and determine appropriate care options. Treatment recommendations are individualized based on overall health, symptoms and personal goals.

Kidney cancer is cancer that begins in the kidneys, which are two bean shaped organs located behind the abdominal organs, one on each side of the spine. In adults, renal cell carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer.

Kidney cancer may not cause symptoms in early stages, but as it grows it can lead to signs such as blood in the urine, pain in the side or back, or unexplained weight loss. Evaluation is important to determine the nature and extent of the disease.

Care for kidney cancer is individualized and often involves coordination among specialists, including urology and oncology teams. Evaluation helps guide treatment planning based on overall health, cancer type and whether the disease has spread.

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. They are a common urologic condition and can affect people of all ages.

Kidney stones may not cause symptoms until they move within the urinary tract. When symptoms occur, they often include sudden or severe pain in the side or back, pain with urination, or blood in the urine. Nausea or vomiting also may occur in some cases.

Treatment depends on the size, location and characteristics of the stone, as well as a person’s symptoms and overall health. Many kidney stones pass on their own, while others may require treatment to relieve pain, clear the stone and reduce the risk of complications.

Male infertility refers to difficulty achieving pregnancy due to factors related to sperm production, sperm function or the delivery of sperm. It can be influenced by a range of medical, structural or health‑related factors and is often part of a broader fertility evaluation.

In some cases, a single cause may not be identified. Even so, evaluation by a urology specialist can help determine whether male factors are contributing to infertility and guide appropriate next steps.

Fertility care often involves coordination with other specialists, including OB‑GYN providers, to support comprehensive evaluation and care planning. Recommendations are individualized based on findings, overall health and family‑building goals.

Overactive or painful bladder describes a group of bladder symptoms that can include a sudden urge to urinate, frequent urination during the day or night, bladder pressure, or ongoing bladder discomfort or pain. These symptoms may occur with or without urine leakage.

Overactive or painful bladder symptoms can affect both men and women and are not considered a normal part of aging. Symptoms may interfere with daily activities, sleep and quality of life, even when diagnostic testing does not show an infection or other clear cause.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine potential contributing factors and rule out other conditions. Care is individualized and focused on symptom management and improving bladder function and comfort.

Peyronie’s disease is a condition caused by the development of scar tissue inside the penis. This scar tissue can lead to curvature, shortening, or changes in shape during erection and may be associated with pain or discomfort.

Symptoms of Peyronie’s disease can vary and may affect sexual function, self‑confidence, and quality of life. Some people experience stable symptoms, while others notice changes over time.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine whether symptoms are related to Peyronie’s disease and guides individualized care planning. Assessment focuses on understanding symptoms, overall health, and the impact on daily life and sexual health.

Prostate cancer is cancer that begins in the prostate gland, a small gland in men that helps produce seminal fluid. It is one of the most common types of cancer in men and often grows slowly, though some forms can be more aggressive.

Prostate cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, they can include changes in urination or discomfort in the pelvic area, though many cases are identified through evaluation before symptoms develop.

Care for prostate cancer is individualized and may involve coordination among urology and oncology specialists. Evaluation helps guide care planning based on cancer type, extent of disease, overall health and personal preferences.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria infect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra. Most UTIs involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and urethra.

Recurrent urinary tract infections are repeat infections that occur over time and may require further evaluation. UTIs are more common in women, and symptoms may include painful or frequent urination, urgency, pelvic discomfort or blood in the urine. More serious complications can occur if an infection spreads to the kidneys.

Many UTIs are treated by a primary care provider. When infections continue to return, a urology specialist may evaluate for contributing factors and help guide further care to reduce recurrence and complications.

Testicular cancer is cancer that begins in the testicles, which are located inside the scrotum. The testicles produce male sex hormones and sperm and play an essential role in reproductive health.

Testicular cancer is relatively uncommon and may present with changes such as swelling, a lump in the testicle, or discomfort in the scrotum or lower abdomen. Evaluation is important when symptoms or changes are noticed.

Care for testicular cancer is individualized and often involves coordination among urology and oncology specialists. Evaluation helps guide care planning based on cancer type, extent of disease and overall health.

Urethral and ureteral strictures are caused by scarring that narrows the tubes that carry urine through the body. The ureters carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, and the urethra carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.

When these passages become narrowed, urine flow can be restricted and lead to symptoms such as a weak urine stream, difficulty or pain with urination, incomplete bladder emptying, frequent urination or urinary tract infections.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine whether a stricture is contributing to symptoms or complications. Treatment is individualized and may be recommended when urine flow is significantly affected or infections and other problems occur.

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control, which can range from occasional leakage to more frequent or severe episodes. It affects people of all ages and can occur for a variety of reasons, including changes in bladder function, pelvic floor support or nerve signaling.

Symptoms vary and may include leakage with physical activity, a sudden or strong urge to urinate, difficulty fully emptying the bladder or frequent urination. While urinary incontinence is common, it is not a normal part of aging and can often be improved with care.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps identify contributing factors and guide treatment options. Care is individualized and may include lifestyle strategies, therapies or other interventions, depending on symptoms and overall health.

Urologic trauma refers to injury affecting the urinary tract or male reproductive organs. This can include injury to the kidneys, bladder, ureters, urethra or external genital structures.

Urologic trauma may result from accidents such as falls, motor vehicle crashes, sports injuries or other physical trauma. Symptoms can vary depending on the nature and location of the injury and may include pain, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or swelling in the pelvic or genital area.

Evaluation by a urology specialist is important when urologic injury is suspected. Care is individualized and may involve coordination with other medical or surgical teams to support recovery and preserve urinary and reproductive function.

Bladder surgery includes reconstructive and corrective procedures.

Circumcision is a procedure that removes the foreskin covering the tip of the penis. It may be performed for medical, cultural or personal reasons and is commonly done during the newborn period.

Circumcision also can be performed later in childhood or adulthood. When done beyond the newborn period, the procedure is typically evaluated and performed by a urology specialist.

A urology consultation helps determine whether circumcision is appropriate based on individual health needs, symptoms or concerns. Care recommendations are personalized and guided by age, overall health and the reason for the procedure.

Enlarged prostate (BPH) treatments include:

• Implanted nitinol device
  An implanted nitinol device is used to support the opening of the urethra and reduce obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate. The device is designed to improve urine flow without removing prostate tissue.
• Prostate enucleation
  Prostate enucleation is a procedure that removes excess prostate tissue contributing to urinary obstruction. It is typically considered for moderate to severe BPH symptoms.
• Prostatic urethral lift
  Prostatic urethral lift is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small implants to hold prostate tissue away from the urethra, helping improve urine flow while minimizing disruption to surrounding structures.
• Steam therapy
  Steam therapy is a minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that uses controlled water vapor to reduce excess prostate tissue and improve urine flow.  It is typically considered for those who have not had adequate relief with other treatments.

Erectile dysfunction treatment includes nonsurgical medication management, hormone replacement therapy and surgical options such as penile implants.

Kidney stone treatment focuses on relieving pain, helping stones pass safely, and preventing complications. Small kidney stones may pass on their own, while larger or more complex stones may require medical intervention.

Ureteroscopy is one approach used to treat kidney stones that are unlikely to pass naturally. This procedure allows a urology specialist to locate and remove or break up stones within the urinary tract, helping reduce pain and lower the risk of blockage or infection.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine the most appropriate treatment based on stone size, location, symptoms and overall health. Care is individualized to support symptom relief and protect kidney function.

MRI/ultrasound fusion biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate areas of concern within the prostate. It combines detailed imaging from MRI with real‑time ultrasound to help guide targeted tissue sampling.

This approach can improve the accuracy of prostate cancer evaluation by helping urology specialists focus on specific areas that may appear abnormal on imaging. Fusion biopsy may be recommended when prostate cancer is suspected or when previous testing has not provided clear results.

A urology consultation helps determine whether MRI/ultrasound fusion biopsy is appropriate. Evaluation and testing decisions are based on imaging findings, health history and individual risk factors.

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when pelvic organs drop from their usual position and place pressure on the bladder, bowel or vagina. This can lead to symptoms such as pelvic pressure, urinary problems or difficulty with bowel function.

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery may be recommended when symptoms interfere with daily activities and have not improved with nonsurgical treatments. Surgical options aim to restore support to the pelvic organs and improve comfort and function.

Evaluation by a urology specialist, often in coordination with other specialists, helps determine whether surgery is appropriate. Care planning is based on symptom severity, overall health and individual treatment goals.

Prostate cancer evaluation often begins with a prostate‑specific antigen (PSA) blood test, which measures the level of PSA produced by the prostate. Changes in PSA levels can signal the need for further evaluation, though elevated PSA does not automatically mean cancer.

When PSA results, imaging or physical exam findings raise concern, a urology specialist may recommend additional testing to better understand what is happening in the prostate. This can include imaging studies or a prostate biopsy to determine whether cancer is present and, if so, how it is behaving.

Prostate cancer treatment depends on many factors, including cancer type, extent of disease, overall health and personal preferences. Urology specialists work closely with oncology and other care teams to guide evaluation, explain results and support individualized care decisions.

Prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the prostate gland. It is most commonly used as a treatment option for prostate cancer and may be recommended based on cancer type, stage and overall health.

Prostatectomy can be performed using different surgical approaches, and evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine whether surgery is appropriate and which approach may be considered. Care planning takes into account individual health factors, cancer characteristics and treatment goals.

Prostatectomy is part of a broader, individualized care plan and may involve coordination with oncology and other specialists. A urology consultation helps guide next steps and ensures patients understand their options and what to expect before and after surgery.

Specialized bladder testing and nonsurgical incontinence treatments include:

• Biofeedback
  Biofeedback is a nonsurgical therapy used to help improve bladder control by increasing awareness of pelvic floor muscle activity. It is often used as part of treatment for urinary incontinence and other bladder control concerns.
  During biofeedback, sensors provide feedback that helps patients learn how to better activate or relax specific muscles involved in bladder function. This information can support improved coordination and control of the pelvic floor muscles over time.
  Biofeedback may be recommended as part of a personalized treatment plan for bladder control symptoms. Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine whether biofeedback is appropriate based on symptom type, severity and overall health.
• Botox injections
  Bladder Botox injections are a nonsurgical treatment option used to help manage bladder control symptoms, including overactive bladder and urge incontinence. The treatment works by relaxing the bladder muscle, which can reduce sudden bladder contractions and improve symptom control.
  Bladder Botox may be considered when other treatments have not provided enough relief. The injections target specific areas of the bladder muscle and are intended to help lessen urgency, frequency and urine leakage.
  A urology specialist evaluates bladder symptoms and health history to determine whether bladder Botox injections are appropriate. Treatment decisions are individualized and based on symptom pattern, response to other therapies and overall health.
• Nerve therapy (percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation)
  Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) is a nonsurgical treatment that uses gentle electrical stimulation to help manage bladder control symptoms, including overactive bladder and urge incontinence. The therapy works by stimulating a nerve near the ankle that connects with the sacral nerves, which play a key role in bladder function.
  PTNS is typically considered when bladder symptoms have not improved with other conservative treatments. Sessions are performed in an outpatient setting and involve temporary stimulation during scheduled visits. Treatment is guided by a urology specialist and tailored to individual symptoms and response.
  Many people experience gradual improvement in bladder urgency, frequency and leakage over time. Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine whether PTNS is an appropriate option based on symptoms, bladder testing and overall health.

Sacral nerve therapy, also known as InterStim therapy, is a treatment that uses gentle nerve stimulation to help manage bladder control symptoms, including overactive bladder, urge incontinence and nonobstructive urinary retention. It works by sending mild electrical signals to the sacral nerves, which help regulate communication between the bladder and the brain.

InterStim therapy is typically considered when other treatments have not provided adequate symptom relief. A urology specialist evaluates bladder symptoms and may use a temporary test stimulation to help determine whether this therapy is likely to be beneficial before a long‑term device is placed.

InterStim therapy is an outpatient procedure, and many people experience improvement in bladder symptoms over time. Care is individualized and based on bladder testing results, symptom severity and overall health.

Ureter reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to repair or restore the flow of urine through the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. It is most often considered when the ureter becomes narrowed, blocked or damaged, a condition known as ureteral obstruction.

Ureteral damage or blockage can result from kidney stones, injury, surgery, scarring, infection or other medical conditions. When obstruction interferes with normal urine flow, it can lead to pain, infection or reduced kidney function if not treated.

Evaluation by a urology specialist helps determine whether ureter reconstruction is appropriate. Care planning is based on the location and cause of the obstruction, kidney function, overall health and individual treatment goals. Reconstruction may be part of a broader approach to protect kidney health and restore urinary function.

Vasectomy is a procedure used for permanent male contraception. It prevents sperm from being included in semen and is typically considered by individuals or couples who do not wish to have future biological children.

Vasectomy is performed by a urology specialist and is usually done on an outpatient basis. Evaluation includes discussion of health history, family‑planning goals and individual considerations.

A urology consultation helps determine whether vasectomy is an appropriate option and allows time to review expectations, timing and follow‑up care. Recommendations are personalized based on overall health and reproductive goals.

Some urologic conditions, such as certain urologic cancers, cannot be completely prevented. However, healthy habits can support urinary tract health and may reduce the risk of other conditions, including urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

Staying well hydrated is one of the most helpful steps you can take. Drinking enough water helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract, dilute urine and reduce irritation of the bladder. Concentrated urine can cause stronger odor, burning with urination and may increase the risk of kidney stones.

Fluid needs vary from person to person. Many people benefit from drinking water regularly throughout the day, and your care team can provide guidance based on your health history.

If you have a history of kidney stones or recurrent urinary issues, your health care provider may recommend specific lifestyle or dietary adjustments. These may include changes to fluid intake or food choices tailored to your individual needs.

If you experience ongoing urinary symptoms or have concerns about prevention, a urology specialist can help evaluate your risk and guide personalized care.

You may be referred to a urologist or consider scheduling an appointment if you are experiencing symptoms involving the urinary tract or male reproductive system. Urology specialists evaluate and treat conditions affecting the kidneys, bladder, prostate, urethra and male reproductive organs.

Common reasons to see a urologist include:

• Blood in the urine.
• Difficulty urinating, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder.
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate, including waking at night to urinate.
• Urinary incontinence.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections.
• Kidney stones or flank pain.
• Enlarged prostate symptoms.
• Erectile dysfunction or other sexual health concerns.
• Male infertility.
• A testicular lump, swelling or pain.

You do not need a referral to make an appointment with Urology at Mayo Clinic Health System. If you are unsure whether your symptoms require specialty care, your primary care provider can help determine whether a urology evaluation is appropriate.

Your first appointment will include a full history evaluation. Imaging may be needed to support the diagnosis or determine next steps in your treatment plan. Depending on your needs, our nursing team may review presurgical recommendations or teach you how to care for post-surgical dressing.

Appointment times vary depending on your symptoms or condition. Most initial appointments take at least 30 minutes.

Bring any medical records from non-Mayo Clinic Health System facilities. Visit our Medical Record Forms page to grant permission for others to access your protected health information or request a change to your health record.

Our Patient Account Services representatives can assist you with any issues related to billing and insurance. We also offer financial assistance if you are unable to pay for care due to financial hardship.

You can make an appointment for a second opinion without a referral from your provider — simply call the appointment number of your preferred location.

If you're a provider, you can refer patients to Urology online, by phone or fax. We value the opportunity to collaborate with you on a treatment plan.

We closely collaborate with pediatric urology providers at Mayo Clinic to ensure our pediatric patients receive the highly specialized care they need. We treat pediatric urology emergencies, such as testicular torsion, which require immediate attention, and provide postsurgical care closer to home after a surgical procedure at Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

We partner with our expert colleagues in Physical Therapy to offer customized rehabilitation to match your needs. From bladder retraining to post-surgical rehabilitation, we'll work with you to help you understand your condition and provide you with the tools and resources to manage it.

Always call 911 in case of an emergency. For after-hours help with other issues, get virtual care 24/7 through the Primary Care On Demand app or review our convenient care options.