About
Dr. Nathan Timothy Lavens is a dedicated Urologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract in men and women, and the male reproductive system. Practicing at a urology clinic within a hospital department in Lethbridge, AB, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Lavens provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. His focus is on delivering patient-centered, evidence-based urological care, ensuring that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their specific needs. The clinic is equipped with modern facilities to support comprehensive urological diagnostics and treatments, serving adult male and female patients with compassion and professionalism.
He has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice Urology (Care of the Urinary Tract and Male Reproductive System) in Alberta. Dr. Lavens graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary (Canada) and has earned specialty certification as a Urologist, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development. His medical education and training ensure that he stays current with the latest advancements and best practices in urological care.
Dr. Lavens’s clinical philosophy centers on providing patient-centered care through a compassionate approach that emphasizes thorough evaluation, shared decision-making, and the use of advanced minimally invasive techniques when appropriate. He is dedicated to educating his patients about their conditions and treatment options, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered and informed. Fluent in English, Dr. Lavens is committed to offering accessible, high-quality urological services to the Lethbridge community and surrounding areas.
Dr. Nathan Lavens addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:
Prostate & Male Genital Conditions
- Male Infertility Factors (e.g., Varicocele, Obstructive Azoospermia): Urological conditions contributing to a couple's inability to conceive.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate: Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in aging men, causing urinary symptoms.
- Testicular Pain, Masses & Swelling (e.g., Epididymitis, Orchitis, Hydrocele, Varicocele, Testicular Torsion): Various conditions causing discomfort or changes in the testicles or scrotum, requiring urological evaluation.
Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions
- Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI): Involuntary leakage of urine during physical activity like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise.
- Urge Urinary Incontinence / Overactive Bladder: Sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Women: Frequent bladder or kidney infections requiring investigation and management.
General Urologic Symptoms & Disorders
- Urinary Frequency, Urgency & Nocturia: Symptoms of needing to urinate often, suddenly, or frequently during the night, which can indicate various underlying conditions.
- Neurogenic Bladder: Bladder dysfunction caused by neurological damage or conditions affecting nerve control of the bladder.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Complicated or Recurrent: Infections affecting any part of the urinary system that are frequent, persistent, or associated with underlying factors.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. Nathan Lavens.
- Prostate Biopsy (TRUS-guided): Transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy to obtain prostate tissue samples for cancer diagnosis.
- Laser Surgery for Urological Conditions: Employing various laser technologies for treatments such as BPH (e.g., HoLEP, GreenLight), kidney stones, and bladder tumors.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Surgical procedure to remove large or complex kidney stones directly from the kidney through a small incision in the back.
- Male Infertility Evaluation & Management (in collaboration with fertility specialists): Investigating causes of male infertility and offering medical or surgical treatments (e.g., varicocele repair, sperm retrieval).
- Testicular Cancer Diagnosis, Staging & Management: Including radical inguinal orchiectomy and coordination with oncologists for further therapy.
- Urinary Incontinence Evaluation & Treatment in Women (Stress, Urge, Mixed): Comprehensive management of involuntary urine leakage, including behavioral therapies, medications, pelvic floor exercises, and surgical options (e.g., slings).
- Minimally Invasive Urologic Surgery (Laparoscopic & Robotic-Assisted): Performing complex urological surgeries using small incisions and advanced technology for reduced recovery time (e.g., for prostate, kidney, bladder conditions).
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Lavens for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Situated in the heart of Downtown Lethbridge, in the South Lethbridge East neighborhood, the urology clinic or hospital department where Dr. Lavens practices is easily accessible within the Commercial Corridor South. Patients can reach the facility via public transit options offered by Lethbridge Transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing convenient options for those arriving by personal vehicle. The practice offers a welcoming environment with modern amenities designed to support comprehensive urological services in a comfortable setting.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Lavens, a Urologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Lavens, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer technologies, medications, or elective procedures (like cosmetic urology or certain non-insured infertility treatments) may not be covered or may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Lavens's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lavens, a Urologist?
- Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in AB, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Lavens. This ensures your care is coordinated and appropriate. Some specific services, like vasectomy in certain private clinic settings, might occasionally be accessed directly, but for general urological assessment or provincially insured care, a referral is the standard pathway.
- What treatment options are available for erectile dysfunction (ED) with Dr. Lavens?
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) has various treatment options available. After evaluating the potential causes, Dr. Lavens may discuss lifestyle modifications, oral medications (like PDE5 inhibitors), vacuum erection devices, injection therapy (intracavernosal injections), or in some cases, surgical options like penile implants. The best treatment depends on the underlying cause of ED and individual patient factors and preferences.
- What are the treatment options for an enlarged prostate (BPH)?
- Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much they affect your quality of life. Options range from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures (like UroLift, Rezum) and surgical treatments (such as TURP or laser prostatectomy). Dr. Lavens can discuss the most suitable options for you based on your individual circumstances.
- What are some common tests a Urologist might perform or order?
- Depending on your symptoms and condition, Dr. Lavens may perform or order several tests. These can include urinalysis (urine test), urine culture, blood tests (like PSA for prostate health), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI of the kidneys, bladder, or prostate), urodynamic studies (to assess bladder function), and cystoscopy (a scope to look inside the bladder and urethra). He will explain why any specific test is needed and what it involves.
- What can be done for urinary incontinence?
- Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) is a common and often treatable condition. Treatment depends on the type of incontinence (stress, urge, mixed, overflow). Options may include lifestyle changes (e.g., fluid management, bladder training), pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels), medications, medical devices (like pessaries for women), nerve stimulation, or surgical procedures (such as sling surgery for stress incontinence). Dr. Lavens can help determine the cause and best treatment plan for you.
1903 9 Ave S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W8
Phone: (403) 524-1411 | Fax: (403) 524-1403
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lavens is a licensed Urologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Lavens for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=a9025dc1-14f2-4e8d-9af8-5e317c8482fb&i=826