Pediatric urology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of urinary and genital problems in children, from newborns to teenagers.
Some common pediatric urology conditions include:
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)
It means one or both testicles are not in the scrotum at birth. It is common in premature babies and may require surgery if it doesn’t correct naturally by 1 year of age
Phimosis is when the foreskin of the penis cannot be pulled back. It’s normal in infants and usually resolves on its own, but persistent or painful cases may need treatment.
Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) is common in children under 6. If it continues beyond that age or is associated with other symptoms, a urologist should evaluate the child.
UTIs in children can be due to poor hygiene, constipation, holding urine for long, or structural problems in the urinary tract.
VUR is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder to the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney infections. It may need long-term follow-up or surgery.
Hypospadias is a birth defect in boys where the urine opening is not at the tip of the penis. Surgery is usually done between 6–18 months of age to correct it.
Not always. Many conditions like phimosis or small hydroceles resolve with time. Surgery is advised only if the condition affects the child’s health, growth, or function.
Evaluation may include:
MCU (Micturating Cystourethrogram) if reflux is suspected
Most pediatric urology conditions are treatable and not life-threatening, especially if diagnosed early. However, some conditions may affect kidney function or fertility if ignored.
Yes, though less common than in adults. Causes include low water intake, genetic issues, urinary infections, or metabolic disorders.
PUV is a blockage in the urine tube (urethra) found in newborn boys. It requires early treatment to prevent kidney damage.
Most hydroceles in babies disappear by 1 year of age. If it persists, causes pain, or becomes large, a simple surgical procedure is done.
If the child has:
Genital abnormalities
A pediatric urologist should be consulted.
No. Many foreskin issues resolve with age. Circumcision is advised only in selected cases of repeated infections or tight foreskin.
Yes, some untreated conditions like undescended testes, hypospadias or severe VUR can affect fertility or kidney function in the long term.
Yes. Pediatric urology surgeries are safe and commonly performed, with children usually recovering quickly under the care of experienced specialists.
For expert care of children’s urology problems, consult Dr. P. Niranjanraj, Urologist at Niranjan Hospital, Perambalur, who offers compassionate and advanced care for kids of all ages.
