Painful urination: which doctor to see
Pain and burning when urinating usually point to a urinary tract infection — unpleasant, but very treatable. Men should see a urologist; for women either a urologist or a gynecologist works.
Common causes
- Cystitis — bladder inflammation
- Urethritis, including from sexually transmitted infections
- Kidney and bladder stones
- In men — prostate inflammation
- Irritation from hygiene products
When to seek urgent help
Do not wait for a scheduled visit if you have any of these signs:
- Pain with high fever and chills
- One-sided low back pain with fever
- Blood in the urine
- Inability to urinate despite the urge — call 103
- Painful urination during pregnancy
Ambulance: 103 (103 from a mobile) · Unified rescue service: 911
Your specialist
Urologist
What to bring to the visit
- A description of symptoms: onset, frequency of urges, urine color
- Previous urine test and ultrasound results, if any
- A list of medicines you take
- Details of similar episodes in the past
Frequently asked questions
Should a woman see a urologist or a gynecologist?
Both work. If the symptoms are only urinary — burning, frequent urges — a urologist; if there is discharge or lower abdominal pain, start with a gynecologist.
Can I just drink cranberry juice and wait?
A neglected infection can climb to the kidneys. A urine test and an examination take little time — do not postpone the visit.
The information on this page is for reference only and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis in person. If your condition worsens, call 103.