5 Signs It May Be Time to See a Specialist About Bladder Health

By: Brooke Martinez, APRN
Specialist in Female Urology

Bladder leaks, urgency, or discomfort can be frustrating—and for many women, embarrassing. Too often, women assume these issues are “just part of getting older” or something they must live with. The truth is: bladder and pelvic health conditions are common, but they are not normal—and they are treatable.

So how do you know when it’s time to stop trying to manage it on your own and talk with a specialist?

Here are five signs:

1. You’re leaking urine when you cough, laugh, or exercise.

If small leaks happen when you sneeze, jog, or lift something heavy, you may have stress incontinence. While common, it can interfere with daily life and confidence. A specialist can help you explore options—from pelvic floor therapy to minimally invasive procedures—that can reduce or even stop the leaks.

2. You’re always rushing to the bathroom.

Do you feel sudden urges to go—even when your bladder isn’t full? Do you wake up several times a night to use the bathroom? Overactive bladder may be the cause, and it can be treated with lifestyle changes, medications, or other therapies.

3. You have frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

If you’ve had multiple UTIs in a year, or if they keep coming back quickly, it’s worth getting checked. A specialist can help identify underlying causes and offer ways to prevent them.

4. You feel pressure or notice a bulge.

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the muscles that support your bladder, uterus, or rectum weaken, leading to pressure, heaviness, or even a visible bulge. It can affect daily comfort and quality of life—but treatment options are available.

5. Bladder or pelvic problems are affecting your daily life.

Whether it’s avoiding exercise, skipping social events, losing sleep, or feeling anxious, any symptom that keeps you from living fully is worth talking about. You deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your daily life.

The Bottom Line

If any of these signs sound familiar, you don’t have to live with them. A female urology or urogynecology specialist can help find answers and offer treatment tailored to your needs. Care is compassionate, private, and designed to help you feel like yourself again.

 Ready to take the next step? Schedule an appointment today:  785-270-7660

785-270-7660