As in all areas of family practice, problems of the genitourinary tract include congenital abnormalities, infection, trauma, and neoplasms. Successful management necessitates that the family physician exhibit competence in behavior, concepts, and skills, with appropriate consultation or referral when necessary. A number of issues that arise in the care of the urologic problems reviewed below are emotionally charged, such as venereal disease, postoperative impotency, and male sterilization. The family physician cannot neglect the importance of personal sensitivity in dealing with patients and families encountering these problems.