Key Takeaways
- November is Bladder Health Month, a national observance led by the Urology Care Foundation that encourages people to talk openly about urinary symptoms.
- The observance covers common conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), incontinence, and bladder pain.
- Many people never mention bladder symptoms to a doctor because they feel embarrassed or do not realize the symptoms matter.
- Tracking symptoms like how often you urinate, how urgent it feels, and any pain or bleeding gives a provider useful information.
- Pregnant patients should know that UTIs are common during pregnancy and need prompt medical attention.
- Prima CARE's urology team in Fall River helps patients throughout Fall River, Somerset, Swansea, Westport, and Tiverton, and you can request an appointment or ask your primary care provider about a referral.
What Is Bladder Health Month and Who Sponsors It?
Every November, the Urology Care Foundation marks Bladder Health Month. The Foundation is the official foundation of the American Urological Association. Its goal during the month is to get people talking about urinary symptoms and to encourage them to track their bladder health and speak with a doctor.
The idea is simple. Bladder problems are common, but they are rarely discussed. A month of awareness helps remove the stigma so patients feel comfortable asking for help.
Conditions Covered During the Observance, Including UTIs
Bladder Health Month looks at a wide range of urinary concerns that affect both men and women. The urology team at Prima CARE commonly treats several of them:
| Condition | What It Means | Treated at Prima CARE Urology |
|---|---|---|
| Urinary tract infections (UTIs) | An infection, most often caused by bacteria, that can affect the bladder and urinary tract | Yes |
| Incontinence | Trouble controlling the flow of urine | Yes |
| Bladder disorders | Conditions that affect how the bladder stores or empties urine | Yes |
| Kidney stones | Hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause pain | Yes |
| Prostate health issues | Concerns that affect the prostate gland | Yes |
UTIs deserve special attention. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases explains that a bladder infection is the most common type of UTI, and that if it goes untreated, it can develop into a kidney infection.
UTIs and Pregnancy
UTI treatment in pregnancy deserves its own mention. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, UTIs affect about 8% of pregnancies. They have been linked to higher rates of preterm delivery and low birth weight, and screening for and treating bacteria in the urine has been shown to reduce the risk of a serious kidney infection during pregnancy. Anyone who is pregnant and notices urinary symptoms should contact their obstetric or primary care provider promptly. Prima CARE also offers gynecology services for patients who need women's health care.
Why Urinary Health Issues Often Go Unaddressed
The Urology Care Foundation notes that many people do not talk with their doctor about bladder symptoms because they feel embarrassed or do not know the symptoms could point to a health issue. That silence can delay care.
A few common reasons patients wait:
- The symptoms feel too personal to discuss
- Mild symptoms seem easy to ignore
- Patients assume changes in urination are a normal part of life
- Busy schedules push health concerns to the back burner
The problem is that small symptoms can grow. A UTI that is caught early is easier to treat than one that spreads. Frequent urination, urgency, or leaking can also have a clear cause that a provider can identify.
Signs It May Be Time to Talk to a Urology Specialist
Not every urinary symptom means something serious. Still, certain signs are worth a conversation with a provider. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases lists these symptoms of a bladder infection:
- A burning feeling when you urinate
- Frequent or intense urges to urinate, even when little urine comes out
- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen
- Cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
Seek care quickly if symptoms come with fever and chills, nausea or vomiting, or pain in the back, side, or groin. These can signal a kidney infection.
Other reasons to book a visit include leaking urine, trouble emptying the bladder, or symptoms that keep coming back. The Urology Care Foundation suggests tracking how often you urinate, how urgent the need feels, and whether you have pain or bleeding. Bringing those notes to an appointment helps a provider see the full picture.
How Prima CARE Supports Patients With Urinary Health ConcernsÂ
The urology team at Prima CARE is located on the main Fall River campus at 289 Pleasant Street, Suite 601. Patients see Dr. Mark Ventura, who treats general urology conditions including kidney stones, urinary incontinence, and prostate disease, along with Chad Willard, PA-C, a physician assistant in the urology division. The team works with Prima CARE's lab and imaging services, which help keep testing and follow-up in one place.
A first visit typically includes a conversation about symptoms and medical history, and the provider may recommend diagnostic tests. Follow-up care is part of the plan so treatment can be adjusted as needed.
Take Charge of Your Bladder Health With Prima CARE Urology
Bladder Health Month is a reminder that urinary symptoms are common, treatable, and worth discussing. Whether the concern is a possible UTI, incontinence, or kidney stones, an early conversation with a provider can make treatment simpler.
Request an appointment with the urology team at Prima CARE in Fall River today, or ask your primary care provider about a referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bladder Health Month?
Bladder Health Month is observed every November. It is led by the Urology Care Foundation to encourage people to track their bladder health and talk with a doctor about symptoms.
When should I see a urologist near me?
If you notice burning with urination, frequent urges, lower abdominal pain, or blood in the urine, it is time to talk with a provider. Patients looking for a urologist near you in Fall River can visit Prima CARE's urology page to get started.
Are UTIs common during pregnancy?
Yes. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports that UTIs affect about 8% of pregnancies, which is why prompt evaluation matters.
What urinary conditions does Prima CARE treat?
The urology team treats kidney stones, urinary tract infections, prostate health issues, incontinence, and bladder disorders.
Why do people avoid talking about bladder symptoms?
Many people feel embarrassed or do not realize the symptoms could point to a health issue. Bladder Health Month aims to make these conversations easier.
