At Western Michigan Urological Associates, we understand that seeing your child struggle with a urologic issue can be frustrating and at times overwhelming. We’re here to help lessen the burden through effective treatment and by offering suggestions to help your child improve their quality life.
When to Visit a Urologist
Don’t hesitate to seek advice. Your child should visit a urologist for issues related to his or her kidneys, bladder, genitalia or a combination of these. Urological conditions in children can vary in severity, ranging from less severe conditions such as Nocturnal Enuresis (bedwetting), to more painful ailments like Kidney Stones.
Boys may have issues related to undescended testes, hypospadias or foreskin problems, while girls might see urologists due to recurrent urinary tract infections or daytime wetting problems. Other common pediatric urology conditions include pediatric urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, hydroceles and hernias, and vesicoureteral reflux.
Tips to Help Your Child
The first step is to be well informed. Chances are you have discussed these issues with your child’s pediatrician, but clarify any questions you may still have. There are also things you can do to help your child prepare for a specialist’s exam and treatment. Use brief and simple terms to describe their condition and what is going on.
Younger children tend to have a shorter attention span than older children, so discuss their feelings before your appointment. Allow your child to ask questions and always answer these questions truthfully. Your child may feel nervous or afraid and may sometimes cry to release those emotions. Let your child know that the urologist is there to help them.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Our urology team diagnoses, evaluates, manages, and treats urologic disorders for children of all ages. Together we can work to determine the best treatment options. This could involve behavior modification, medication, and in extreme situations, surgery. Our specialists offer a variety of in-office procedures and treatments including circumcision, labial adhesions, urologic ultrasounds, biofeedback physical therapy, pelvic floor physical therapy just to name a few. To schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, call our office at 616-392-1816.
