A urology examination is the first step for any complaint involving the kidneys, bladder, prostate or genitals. Many urological conditions can be treated simply and successfully when they are found in time, and most “awkward” questions get a clear answer at the very first consultation.
Dr Penev is a specialist urologist with more than 15 years of medical experience, and since 2017 he has been part of the team at the Department of Urology at Kaspela University Hospital (UMBAL Kaspela), Plovdiv. He sees men, women and children, and consultations are held in Bulgarian, English and German, which makes the practice convenient for international patients in Plovdiv too.
When it is recommended
Book an appointment with a urologist if you notice:
- burning, pain or difficulty when passing urine, a weak or interrupted stream;
- passing urine often during the day or getting up more than once at night;
- pain in the lower back, groin or lower abdomen;
- blood in the urine, even once and without pain;
- a lump, swelling, heaviness or pain in the testicles;
- leaking urine or recurring urinary tract infections;
- problems with erections, pain during sex, changes in the skin of the genitals.
An examination without symptoms makes sense for every man over 45–50, when a preventive prostate check is particularly important. Parents can bring their child if they suspect phimosis, an undescended testicle, bedwetting or frequent urinary infections.
Some conditions cannot wait. If you have sudden severe pain in a testicle (especially in boys and young men), are unable to pass urine with a full bladder, have a high temperature with pain in the lower back, or blood clots in your urine, go to an emergency department straight away or call 112 (the European emergency number) rather than waiting for an appointment.
How it is done
An initial consultation usually lasts 20–30 minutes and goes through several steps.
- Conversation. Dr Penev listens to you: what your symptoms are, how long you have had them, what makes them worse or better, what medicines you take, what illnesses and operations you have had. Previous results and hospital discharge summaries are welcome.
- Physical examination. This includes examining the abdomen and the kidney areas and, in men, the external genitals. If you have urinary complaints, or for a check-up after 45–50, a rectal examination of the prostate is also done; it takes about a minute and causes only mild discomfort.
- Ultrasound if needed. In the consulting room Dr Penev can perform an ultrasound of the kidneys, bladder and prostate with modern equipment. The test is painless, involves no radiation and gives answers during the consultation itself – for example about stones, a blocked kidney, urine left in the bladder or the size of the prostate.
- Explanation and plan. Finally, you get a clear explanation of what the examination shows, which tests are needed (urine, blood tests, PSA, a microbiological culture, uroflowmetry) and what treatment is proposed.
The examination does not require an anaesthetic and is not painful. Ask all the questions that concern you – this is part of the consultation, not a waste of time.
Preparation
- Bring previous results, hospital discharge summaries and imaging, if you have any.
- Write down the medicines you take, including food supplements.
- Come with a moderately full bladder – do not pass urine for about an hour before the appointment so that an ultrasound is possible.
- Make a note of when your symptoms started and how they are changing.
- If you are planning a PSA test, avoid ejaculation and cycling for 48 hours before the blood is taken.
You will find a detailed list in our advice on how to prepare for a urology appointment.
After the examination
The aim is for you to leave the consulting room with a clear picture of your condition and a specific plan: a prescription if one is needed, requests for tests and a date for a follow-up consultation, at which the results are discussed together. If more in-depth tests or surgery are needed, Dr Penev arranges your admission to the Department of Urology at Kaspela University Hospital and continues to advise you after you are discharged.
Where it is done
- Dr Penev’s urology practice – Plovdiv, 5 Anri Barbyus St – by appointment.
- Vita Med Medical Centre – Karlovo, 18 Todor i Ana Pulevi St – for patients from Karlovo and central Bulgaria, on set days according to a schedule announced in advance.
- Kaspela University Hospital – Plovdiv, 64 Sofia St – for hospital tests and treatment.
You will find addresses, phone numbers and directions on the contact and locations page.
Price
Initial urology consultation – €50. Follow-up consultation – €30. The prices of ultrasound, tests and procedures are confirmed when you book or during the consultation.
Do not put off looking after your health – book an appointment with Dr Penev by phone or online and come for an examination on a day that suits you.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral from my GP?
It is not compulsory. Dr Penev works with the NHIF (Bulgaria's National Health Insurance Fund) – with a referral (form No. 3) from your GP, the consultation is covered by the NHIF. Without a referral you can book a paid consultation directly by phone or online.
Does a urologist see women?
Yes. Urology covers the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract in both sexes. Cystitis, stones, blood in the urine and leaking urine are common reasons for women to see Dr Penev.
How often should I see a urologist if I have no symptoms?
For men over 45–50, usually once a year. Dr Penev sets the interval individually according to your age, results and family history.
Is the ultrasound included in the price of the consultation?
The ultrasound is done in the consulting room when it is needed for the diagnosis. Whether and how it is charged separately will be confirmed when you book.
The information on this website is for general education and does not replace an examination and consultation with a doctor. If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical help immediately or call 112.