Urinary Retention

at Women’s Healthcare of Illinois

Urinary retention is defined as the inability to completely or partially empty the bladder. You may be unable to start urination, or if you are able to start, you can’t fully empty your bladder.

Why is This Happening?

There are two general types of urinary retention: obstructive and non-obstructive. If there is an obstruction (for example, kidney stones), urine cannot flow freely through the urinary tract. Non-obstructive causes include a weak bladder muscle and nerve problems that interfere with signals between the brain and the bladder. If the nerves aren’t working properly, the brain may not get the message that the bladder is full.

Some of the most common causes of non-obstructive urinary retention are:

Stroke
Vaginal childbirth
Pelvic injury or trauma
Impaired muscle or nerve function due to medication or anesthesia
Accidents that injure the brain or spinal cord

Obstructive retention may result from:

Cancer
Kidney or bladder stones
Enlarged prostate (BPH) in men

Please note: InterStim™ is not indicated for Obstructive Retention

Treat Yourself to Less Worry

Urinary retention is a treatable condition. Don’t be afraid to speak up about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. This will help your doctor find the right treatment for you.