Top 5 Myths About Paediatric Urology Misinformation about children’s health often gets passed down through generations. When it comes to paediatric urology , myths can delay proper treatment and put a child’s well-being at risk. Parents are often unsure about what’s normal and when medical attention is necessary. Conditions such as bedwetting or an undescended testis may require timely evaluation by a specialist. Here, our experts debunk the top five myths in paediatric urology and share accurate, science-backed information every parent should know. Paediatric Urology Myth 1: Surgery is the only solution for children’s urological problems Fact: Most urological conditions in children can be managed without surgery. Contrary to belief, surgery isn’t the first line of treatment. Many conditions can be managed effectively through: ● Medications ● Bladder training programs ● Timed voiding techniques ● Behavioural therapy Common concerns like urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bedwetting (enuresis) usually respond well to non-surgical management. Surgery is only required for complex or structural conditions such as posterior urethral valves, severe hydronephrosis, or anatomical blockages. If you are concerned about your child’s symptoms, early consultation with a paediatric urologist in Cape Town is essential. Myth 2: Kids will simply “grow out” of urological issues Fact: Some problems resolve naturally, but many do not. While it’s common to hear “they’ll outgrow it,” delaying care can be risky. For example: ● Recurrent UTIs can cause kidney damage. ● Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) may scar the kidneys if untreated. ● Bladder dysfunction can worsen with age. ● Undescended testis can cause fertility issues later in life. Timely diagnosis and intervention ensure better outcomes for your child. Myth 3: Undescended testicles will correct themselves without treatment Fact: If the testicles haven’t descended by 6 months, they rarely will on their own. Undescended testis (cryptorchidism) that remains untreated beyond 1 year can increase risks such as: ● Fertility challenges ● Intimacy concerns ● Higher chance of testicular cancer ● Associated hernia Treatment typically involves a minimally invasive procedure called orchiopexy , performed by a paediatric urologist. If your baby boy’s testicles are not in the scrotum by 6 months, seek medical advice promptly. Myth 4: A small penis in children always signals a problem Fact: Penile size in infants and young boys varies widely, and most are within the normal range. Parents often worry due to comparisons or misconceptions. In rare cases, it may be linked to hormonal or endocrine disorders like micropenis. What matters more are signs such as: ● Is the foreskin retracting normally? ● Is urination comfortable? ● Is the urine flow strong and steady? Unless accompanied by other symptoms, size alone is not usually a cause for concern. Myth 5: Kids with urinary issues should drink much more water Fact: Both too much and too little fluid can worsen urinary problems. Children with conditions such as bedwetting or daytime incontinence need balanced hydration. Excess fluids before bedtime or dehydration during the day can irritate the bladder and lead to issues like: ● More concentrated urine → bladder irritation ● Constipation → worsens urinary symptoms ● Reduced bladder capacity over time What parents should do instead: ● Ensure steady fluid intake throughout the day ● Avoid excessive drinking right before sleep ● Encourage regular toilet visits Always consult a paediatric urologist before making significant changes to your child’s fluid intake.