September 9, 2025, 1:25 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
The thought of a prostate exam causes discomfort for many men. However, those experiencing symptoms or over the age of 45 should not delay visiting a urologist. In this article, FITBOOK reveals what exactly happens there—and why fears are unfounded.
When a Visit to the Urologist Makes Sense
Frequent or painful urination, blood in the urine, or recurring urinary tract infections are typical reasons for an appointment with a urologist, according to Axel Merseburger, spokesperson for the German Society of Urology. Erectile problems, testicular pain, kidney stones, and unclear lower abdominal complaints should also be clarified urologically.
Robert Frese, chairman of the Association of Private Urologists in Hamburg, adds that visible changes in the genital area, such as signs of inflammation or hardening in the testicular area, are also reasons for an examination.
Additionally, urologists are the go-to for questions about fertility, sexual dysfunction, and sexually transmitted diseases. “However, the first point of contact is always the general practitioner to be referred to the right specialist,” Axel Merseburger told the dpa.
Why Cancer Screening Is So Important
A particularly common reason for a urological check-up is cancer screening—especially for prostate cancer. “Prostate carcinoma is the most common cancer in men—like breast cancer in women,” explains Robert Frese. According to the German Society of Urology, about 66,000 men are newly diagnosed each year.1
An annual screening is recommended starting at age 45, covered by statutory health insurance. However, according to a representative survey commissioned by Verivox, 55 percent of men in this age group do not regularly undergo this examination—26 percent have never had it done.2
What to Expect at Your First Urologist Appointment
Whether for preventive care or acute issues, the first appointment usually begins with a detailed conversation. Topics include family history, previous illnesses, and medications taken.
“Questions about sexual function should not be avoided out of false shame,” says Robert Frese. This is followed by a physical examination, which the doctor may supplement with urine or blood tests, depending on the case.
What Exactly Happens During Cancer Screening
The examination includes inspecting and palpating the penis and scrotum, as well as a manual prostate exam through the rectum. Lymph nodes are also assessed. “It’s a bit uncomfortable. But a blood draw is ultimately worse. If you explain the background to the patient, everyone goes along with it,” says Robert Frese.
However, the palpation exam alone is not considered sufficient. “Not every small tumor can be detected early enough by touch,” explains Frese. Professional associations like the German Society of Urology, therefore, recommend an additional PSA test. This measures the prostate-specific antigen in the blood—an important marker for early detection. The cost of this test is about 25 to 35 euros, which health insurance does not currently cover.
Axel Merseburger advises men to seek individual consultation: A combination of palpation and PSA test can be beneficial. Robert Frese warns against completely excluding the palpation exam: “It can provide essential information about prostate size and shape, as well as possible palpable abnormalities related to colorectal cancer.”
Fear of the Exam? Here’s What Helps Against Uncertainty
How uncomfortable the palpation exam is perceived varies, but it is not painful and usually lasts only a few seconds. Axel Merseburger recommends a relaxed posture and calm breathing. Additionally, thorough information can reduce fears and feelings of shame. Frese cites another reason for the reluctance: “Men don’t like going to the doctor. They see their body more as a tool and the doctor as an engineer, only called in when there are problems.”
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Urology Is Not Just for Men
Despite the common misconception, urology practices are not exclusively for men. “About 40 percent of my patients are women,” reports Robert Frese. Reasons for a visit often include recurring urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or incontinence issues. “Women can also have tumors treated in the urological field, such as bladder cancer or a kidney tumor,” says Frese.
Children are also treated urologically—often due to congenital malformations or an undescended testicle, as Axel Merseburger explains.
Conclusion: The Importance of Urologist Visits
Whether for preventive care or specific issues, visiting a urologist is important. The visit is not as uncomfortable as many might think—and it can save lives.
With material from dpa.