Urethral stricture is a narrowing or blockage of the tube that carries urine out of the body, and it can occur in both women and men. The most common symptoms are straining to pass urine, a weak or interrupted stream and dribbling. Diagnosis involves an examination, measurement of the urine flow rate and imaging of the urethra; depending on the position, length and cause of the stricture, treatment ranges from dilatation to urethroplasty.
The urethra is the tube through which urine leaves the bladder. When it narrows, urine flow becomes more difficult, and people often first notice it as "my urine doesn't flow like it used to".
Symptoms
- Straining or pain when passing urine
- A weak or interrupted urine stream
- Needing to pass urine often
- Urination that takes a long time
- Dribbling
- Discomfort or pain after passing urine
Causes
- Injury to the urethra from accidents, surgery or the use of catheters
- Infections such as urethritis
- Inflammatory conditions such as balanitis and balanoposthitis
- Tumours of the urethra
- Scar tissue forming in the urethra
Diagnosis
At the first consultation your symptoms are discussed and an examination is carried out. The urine flow rate is measured with uroflowmetry. Endoscopy or retrograde imaging (a contrast X-ray) may be used to see the inside of the urethra and the position of the stricture.
Treatment
Treatment is decided according to the severity, position, length and cause of the stricture. Most strictures need a surgical procedure. The options are:
- Widening the urethra (dilatation)
- Placing a stent
- Surgical reconstruction of the urethra (urethroplasty)
Which method is chosen, and for which strictures each is preferred, is explained in detail on the urethral stricture treatment page.
Prevention
Avoiding injury to the urethra, paying attention to sexual hygiene, having infections treated early and the use of appropriate techniques during surgical procedures all reduce the risk of stricture. If you notice a change in your urine flow, the right thing to do is to see a urologist.
