In short
- A urologist is the medical and surgical specialist of the urinary tract in men, women and children, and of the male genital organs.
- Andrology is the part of urology devoted to men’s sexual health and fertility.
- A urologist trained in andrology handles both, from diagnosis to surgery.
- Dr Ayhan Bakar is a urologist and andrologist in Brussels.
In this article
What a urologist does
A urologist treats diseases of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra in men, women and children, as well as diseases of the prostate and male genital organs. Urologists are both physicians and surgeons.
- Kidney stones, infections and blood in the urine
- Prostate and urinary symptoms
- Incontinence and overactive bladder
- Prostate, bladder, kidney and testicular cancer
What an andrologist does
Andrology focuses on men’s sexual and reproductive health. It is often practised by urologists with additional training.
- Erection and ejaculation problems
- Low testosterone
- Male fertility and varicocele
- Penile implants
Who should I see?
For a urinary, kidney or prostate problem, see a urologist. For problems with erections, libido or fertility, an andrologist is the right choice.
Because these problems are often linked, for example an enlarged prostate and erection problems, a doctor who practises both saves you extra appointments.
A urologist and andrologist in Brussels
Dr Ayhan Bakar practises both at Sainte-Anne Saint-Rémi hospital (Anderlecht) and the Basilique clinic (Ganshoren), part of the CHIREC group. He consults in French and English, and you can book directly, without a referral letter.
Tests carried out by a urologist
Part of the assessment is often done in the office, during the consultation or at a dedicated appointment:
- Ultrasound of the kidneys, bladder, prostate or testicles
- Uroflowmetry, which measures the strength of the urine stream
- Cystoscopy, which looks inside the bladder
- Prostate biopsy and urodynamic study
And your GP?
Your GP remains at the centre of your care. With your consent, the urologist shares his conclusions so that care is coordinated.
Frequently asked questions
Is an andrologist a sex therapist?
No. An andrologist is a doctor who looks for and treats the physical causes of sexual and fertility problems. A sex therapist helps with psychological and relationship aspects; the two approaches complement each other.
Do women see an andrologist?
Andrology is about men. For urinary problems, women see a urologist.
Do urologists operate?
Yes. Urologists are also surgeons: prostate, stones, incontinence, circumcision, implants. Many procedures are now done through the natural passages or as day surgery.
Learn more
- CareConditions and treatments
- CareAndrology
- CareErectile dysfunctionErectile dysfunction is the ongoing inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for satisfying sex.
- CareMale fertilityWhen pregnancy takes a while, a male factor is involved in a large share of cases.
More advice
Your first urology appointment: how to prepareWhat to bring, how it works, tests that may be done the same day: everything you need to prepare your first visit to a urologist in Brussels.Read the article
Enlarged prostate: symptoms and treatment of benign prostatic enlargementWeak stream, getting up at night, bladder not emptying: how to recognise benign prostate enlargement and the treatments available, from tablets to surgery.Read the article
Urinary leakage: what are the solutions for women and men?Leaks on exertion, sudden urges, leaks after prostate surgery: the types of incontinence and the solutions, from pelvic floor exercises to surgery.Read the articleThis information is general and does not replace a consultation. In an emergency, call 112.
Article published by Dr Ayhan Bakar, urologist in Brussels (INAMI 17718534450).
Reference: European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines.