In 2020, female urologists surpassed 10 percent of the urology workforce for the first time. (Don't feel bad if you missed this news. We were all a little distracted by something else that year.) 

For this Women's History Month, we've asked Dr. Natalya Lopushnyan to share her experience as a urologist, including why she decided to pursue urology, how she's navigated a field traditionally dominated by men, how she puts male patients at ease, and what advice she has for young women today considering urology.

Then, we invited some of our female physician assistants and nurse practitioners to share their experiences in the field as well.

But to start, here's Dr. Lopushnyan in her own words  . . .

Why did I choose urology? Well, where else do you get to combine intricate surgery, fascinating anatomy, and endless opportunities for awkward but hilarious conversations?  

From the start, I knew I loved surgery. There's something deeply satisfying about fixing things with your hands. And when it came to working with patients, I found that I just clicked better with men. Maybe it's because they're often hilariously awkward in a urology office. Or maybe it's because they tend to keep things simple. Either way, I found my niche.

Now, being a woman in a field historically dominated by men has its moments. Kind of like being the only girl at a boys' sleepover—interesting but definitely not boring! There have been some lowlights, like the occasional raised eyebrow or the "Are you sure you're in the right place?" moments. "It's kind of a boys' club." But I never found the male-dominated environment stressful. In fact, it often worked in my favor. Men in the field (and my patients) tend to appreciate straightforwardness, and I'm nothing if not direct.

Training wasn't all smooth sailing. Residency was tough—long hours, high-pressure situations, and the constant challenge of proving yourself. But it was also a blast. I learned so much, not just about urology but about human nature. There's something about being elbow-deep in surgery at all the odd hours of day or night that really brings people together. Plus, you pick up some fantastic life skills—like how to hold your bladder for 12 hours straight.

When it comes to my patients, I know walking into a urologist's office isn't exactly on anyone's bucket list. Especially when that urologist is a younger woman and the patient is about to discuss something personal. But I've found humor to be the ultimate icebreaker. A well-timed joke or an empathetic smile can turn an uncomfortable conversation into a manageable one. 

And once they realize I'm there to help, not judge, the walls come down.

For young women considering urology, here's my advice: Go for it. Don't let the demographics scare you off. If you love surgery, enjoy working with people (even when they're awkward), and can laugh at the occasional inappropriate joke, you'll thrive. Urology offers a unique blend of surgical precision and genuine human connection. Plus, you'll have the best stories at the cocktail parties, I promise.

More insights on women in urology from some of our other practitioners

Below, Urline Gregoire (nurse practitioner), Donna Robbins (physician assistant), and Meagan Smoyer (nurse practitioner) share their insights. 

What attracted you to urology?

URLINE GREGOIRE: I love how urology offers a combination of medical and surgical care. 

DONNA ROBBINS: Initially, the urology field found me. I was in the middle of a job search after completing my PA studies, and the urology department reached out to me about a position. At the time, urology wasn't even on my radar, but I thought, 'Never say no to an interview.' The rest is history. At the time, I thought the PA job in urology sounded interesting because it was a combination of adult and pediatric clinics, inpatient care, procedures, and assisting in the OR.

Ironically, I never considered the field of urology during my training but wound up loving it. I particularly like being specialized, especially when it is a challenging patient with an unusual diagnosis. 

MEAGAN SMOYER: Urology found me! I was looking to transition from family medicine to a specialty clinic. At that time, I did not have anything specific in mind—I just wanted to work in an environment where I could thrive, grow, and learn. When I interviewed and shadowed at the clinic, I found myself interested in all that urology manages, and everyone seemed to enjoy their jobs.

What's your experience been like as a woman in this field?

URLINE GREGOIRE: It's been amazing! Working in urology allows me to build meaningful relationships with my patients while managing complex and sometimes sensitive conditions. I have the privilege of directly improving patients' quality of life.

DONNA ROBBINS: As I sit down to answer, I realize I was the only female on the urology clinical team at my first job 20 years ago. I worked with all male attendings and residents. There were never any gender issues on my team. However, sometimes male patients would be uncomfortable seeing a female provider. Once they were better acquainted with me, this wasn't an issue, but sometimes I would have to refer them to a male provider.

When I moved to private practice, I did have female patients seeking me out because female urologists were rare. That seems to be changing now with more female APP and MDs in the urology field. 

MEAGAN SMOYER: Being a woman in urology has allowed me to connect with my female patients and explain things to them from a point of view that they can fully understand. There is also a certain trust and bond that forms from speaking to someone who seems to understand where you are coming from. From that standpoint, I feel there is a much better patient-provider relationship and communication, which sets the patient up for success in their treatment plans. 

What would you say if you could advise a young woman considering entering urology?

URLINE GREGOIRE: I highly encourage more women to join this specialty. This field offers the opportunity to continue learning and evolving as a clinician, whether through research, innovative treatments, or the growing understanding of pelvic health.

I also encourage more women to consider joining the field of urology because this specialty often deals with sensitive health issues. Female patients, in particular, may feel more comfortable discussing these issues with female clinicians who can empathize with them. Therefore, a greater female representation in this field can help address this gap in care. 

DONNA ROBBINS: I would definitely recommend this specialty to young women as there still is a deficit of female providers. Many think of urology as a primarily male specialty, but they forget that women have urological needs as well. I think it's a very rewarding field. I feel many patients are appreciative of the different perspectives female providers sometimes have. 

MEAGAN SMOYER: If urology truly interests you, I know that you will be very happy entering into this specialty. It is such a great mix of procedures and diagnoses to manage. I feel like I make an impact on my patients' lives daily and that was the reason I went into medicine. 

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