Incomplete bladder emptying

Incomplete bladder emptying, or urinary retention, can be a bothersome and sometimes serious condition affecting men. This occurs when the bladder doesn't fully empty, leaving residual urine behind. This issue can impact your quality of life and lead to other health problems if left untreated.

What Causes Incomplete Bladder Emptying?

Several factors can contribute to incomplete bladder emptying in men:

• Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH): As men age, the prostate gland often grows, obstructing the urethra and hindering urine flow.

• Urethral Obstructions: Stones, strictures (narrowing of the urethra), or tumors can block the passage of urine.

• Nerve Damage: Conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries can affect the nerves controlling bladder function.

• Medications: Certain drugs can contribute to bladder emptying issues.

• Pelvic Floor Muscle Problems: Weakness or dysfunction of these muscles can impact bladder control.

For the purpose of ths blog I’m going to discuss pelvic floor muscle problems.

As this is something mens complain about alot. The men I see will also have been assessed by the urologists and GP, clearing them of Prostate issues, obstructions etc but still suffering from urinary urgancy and feeling like their bladder is not fully empting.

Symptoms of Incomplete Bladder Emptying

Recognizing the signs of incomplete bladder emptying is crucial for seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination

• Weak or interrupted urine stream

• Straining to urinate

• Feeling like your bladder is never completely empty

• Urinary urgency or incontinence

• Pain or discomfort during urination

• Blood in urine

Top Tips from a Pelvic Floor Specialist

• Take your time: don’t rush your time in the toilet,

• Forward leaning : this is almost a plank in front of the urinal. Rest your “unused “ hand against the wall and have a slight lean forward over the toilet.

• Urethral draining: take your time to make sure all the urine is out.

• Pelvic foor down training

For more information feel free to get in touch.