What is Urethral Dilation?
The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. Urethral dilation is a medical procedure designed to widen this tube when it has become narrowed, a condition known as a urethral stricture. These strictures can impede urine flow, leading to symptoms such as a weak urinary stream, incomplete bladder emptying, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
The procedure typically involves inserting progressively larger instruments, called dilators, into the urethra. These dilators gradually stretch the narrowed segment. The primary goal of urethral dilation is to improve urine flow and alleviate the symptoms caused by the stricture, ensuring urine can pass freely from the bladder.
What is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine. The urinary system includes the bladder, which stores urine, and the urethra, through which urine exits the body.
Controlling urine flow relies on a coordinated effort between the bladder muscle, the internal and external urethral sphincter muscles, and the pelvic floor muscles. Sphincter muscles act like valves to keep the urethra closed until a person chooses to urinate, and pelvic floor muscles provide support for continence. Common types of incontinence include stress incontinence, where leakage occurs with physical activity, and urge incontinence, involving a sudden, strong need to urinate followed by involuntary leakage.
Urethral Dilation and Incontinence: The Connection
While urethral dilation is a common procedure performed to improve urinary flow, it can sometimes lead to urinary incontinence as a potential side effect. This is often temporary, particularly in the period immediately following the procedure. The mechanical stretching of the urethra can cause irritation and inflammation of the delicate tissues lining the urinary tract.
This temporary irritation can disrupt the normal function of the urethral sphincter muscles, which are responsible for maintaining urinary control. Swelling and discomfort can temporarily impair the coordinated signals between the bladder and the brain, leading to a transient loss of bladder control. These issues typically resolve as the acute inflammation subsides.
In some instances, particularly with aggressive or repeated dilation, there is a risk of damaging the delicate urinary sphincter muscles. The external urethral sphincter, located just below the bladder, is especially vulnerable, as it is a crucial component of continence. Injury to this muscle can weaken its ability to close off the urethra effectively, potentially leading to more persistent leakage.
The procedure can also irritate nerves controlling bladder function, temporarily affecting their ability to send and receive signals accurately. Individuals with pre-existing bladder conditions, such as an overactive bladder, or those with underlying pelvic floor weakness may experience an exacerbated risk of incontinence after dilation. The overall likelihood and severity of incontinence can vary depending on the individual’s anatomy, the extent of the stricture, and the technique used during the dilation.
Addressing Incontinence After Dilation
Experiencing mild, temporary incontinence immediately following a urethral dilation procedure is not uncommon. This initial leakage often resolves on its own as post-procedural swelling and irritation diminish. The body typically recovers within a few days to weeks as tissues heal and normal muscle and nerve function are restored.
It is important for individuals to communicate any instances of urinary leakage to their healthcare provider. The provider can assess the situation, determine if the incontinence is expected, rule out other potential causes, and offer guidance on managing symptoms during the recovery period.
Common strategies for managing post-dilation incontinence include pelvic floor exercises, often referred to as Kegel exercises, which strengthen bladder and urethral support muscles. Bladder training techniques, involving gradually increasing the time between urinations, may also help regain control. Temporary use of absorbent products can help manage leakage while awaiting resolution. For persistent or worsening symptoms, further evaluation may be necessary.