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Conditions

Urology · Urinary health

Urinary retention

Understand difficulty emptying the bladder in adults, useful tests and situations that need immediate help.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Urinary retention prevents the bladder from emptying completely. It may occur suddenly, with an inability to urinate, or develop gradually while some urine still passes.

Possible symptoms

A weak stream, difficulty starting, frequent small amounts or leakage may occur. Chronic retention can be hard to notice. Acute retention can cause severe abdominal pain.

Causes and associated factors

A blockage or inadequate bladder contraction may be involved. An enlarged prostate, prolapse, constipation, neurological problems, some medicines, surgery or childbirth may contribute. Assessment looks for the explanation in your situation.

Diagnosis

Your doctor reviews symptoms, medical history and medicines. They assess urine remaining in the bladder after urination, often using ultrasound.

Tests

Urine tests, blood tests of kidney function or specialist investigations may complete the assessment depending on the findings. Not everyone needs all these tests.

Course of the condition

The course depends on the cause. Persistent retention can lead to infection, leakage and bladder or kidney damage. Appropriate follow-up is needed.

Care options

In acute retention, a professional promptly drains the bladder, usually with a catheter. Further care depends on the cause: medicines, a procedure or a suitable catheterisation plan may be discussed. If a catheter is needed, the team arranges follow-up and teaches you the required care. Catheterisation intervals and catheter removal are planned with them.

When to consult

Seek assessment for persistent difficulty urinating or a feeling of incomplete emptying. Report changes after surgery and bring your medicine list. Do not wait for pain before discussing these changes.

Urgent help

If you cannot urinate or have severe abdominal pain, seek immediate medical help. With a catheter, contact your team without delay if it becomes blocked, you develop fever or you pass bright red blood.

Questions for your doctor

  • What is causing my bladder to empty poorly?
  • Should we measure remaining urine or check my kidneys?
  • Do I need a catheter, and what follow-up is planned?
  • Which treatments and alternatives suit my situation?
  • Who should I contact if I cannot urinate or have a catheter problem?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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