Women's Health
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Urinary Retention
What is urinary retention?
Urinary retention is the condition that leaves a person unable to completely empty their bladder when urinating. There are two types: acute, which is typically more severe and happens suddenly, and chronic, which occurs long term. Struggling with a bladder function disorder can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but you’re not alone. Many people discuss their struggles with urinary incontinence, but urinary retention can also be a problem.
Symptoms of urinary retention include:
- Feeling the urge to urinate but can't
- Weak urine flow
- Feeling the need to urinate again immediately after urination
- Bladder leakage
Causes of urinary retention
The following may lead to urinary retention:
- Urethral blockage
- Medication (including antihistamines and anti-depressants) side effects
- Nerve damage from stroke, MS, diabetes or pelvic/spinal trauma
- Infections such as UTIs and STIs
- Urethral stricture (or scar tissue inside the urethra)
Diagnosis and testing for urinary retention
A healthcare provider will perform tests to confirm a diagnosis. These tests may include a physical exam, bladder ultrasound, cystoscopy and/or urodynamic testing. For acute urinary retention, a catheter is used to drain the bladder.
The following options may be used to address chronic urinary retention:
- Surgery: Both open and minimally invasive procedures can remove scar tissue or repair damaged reproductive organs.
- Pelvic floor therapy: In the case of pelvic prolapse, pelvic floor therapy can help strengthen muscles and regain bladder control.
- Vaginal pessary: Like pelvic floor therapy, this insert supports pelvic muscles to help control bladder function.
Urinary retention treatment options
For acute urinary retention, a catheter is used to drain the bladder.
The following options may be used to address chronic urinary retention:
- Surgery: Both open and minimally invasive procedures can remove scar tissue or repair damaged reproductive organs.
- Pelvic floor therapy: In the case of pelvic prolapse, pelvic floor therapy can help strengthen muscles and regain bladder control.
- Vaginal pessary: Like pelvic floor therapy, this insert supports pelvic muscles to help control bladder function.
Next steps for patient
If you’d like to meet with a provider and find the best care options, it’s time to reach out to Main Line Health. Schedule a visit with a specialist today.Call 1.866.CALL.MLH (1.866.225.5654)
Treatments
Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery can be used to treat a broad spectrum of gynecological disorders with advanced precision.
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
With three locations in the western suburbs of Philadelphia, we’re sure to offer pelvic floor rehabilitation near you. Our pelvic floor PTs treat pelvic floor conditions in men and women and we’re able to offer comprehensive treatments for these sometimes complex conditions.
Gynecology
Whether you’re seeing us for common gynecological problems or seeking out advanced therapies and the very best surgical expertise, our physicians, board-certified are here for in gynecology, are here for you every stage of your life from adolescence through the childbearing years into menopause and beyond.