Urinary retention

Urinary retention happens when the bladder doesn’t fully empty, leading to small leaks especially during coughing, sneezing or passing faeces (poo).

You may notice:

• you need to strain to pass urine (wee)
• a slow or weak urine (wee) stream
• feeling like your bladder isn’t empty after going to the toilet
• sudden need to go to the toilet
• passing urine (wee) while asleep
• frequent urinary tract infections.

Causes of urinary retention

Common causes include:

• a blocked urethra (wee tube)
• an enlarged prostate (in men*)
• a pelvic organ prolapse – such as when the uterus (womb) or other pelvic organs press into the vagina (in women*)
• nerve damage affecting the bladder or pelvic floor muscles
• medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
• some medicines.

* References to ‘women’ or ‘men’ include anyone with similar health needs, regardless of sex at birth or gender identity. Read our Gender inclusivity statement.

When to seek support for urinary retention

If it’s hard to empty your bladder regularly, speak to a nurse continence specialist, pelvic health physiotherapist or GP (doctor).

Untreated retention can harm the bladder and kidneys, so early support is important.

This content has been reviewed by sub­ject mat­ter experts in line with Continence Health Australia’s established process. Read about our clinical content review protocol.