What is Post micturition incontinence?
Post micturition incontinence (commonly known as after-dribble) can occur when the muscles that surround the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis) do not contract properly. This stops the bladder from fully emptying. A common cause of post micturition incontinence is an enlarged prostate or weakened pelvic floor muscles.
MANAGEMENT
The following can help minimise post micturition incontinence :
- Sit down on the toilet to empty your bladder.
- Place your fingertips (three fingers wide) behind your scrotum and apply gentle pressure upwards and forwards to encourage the flow of urine along and down the urethra, then shake or squeeze the penis in the usual way. Repeat this movement twice to make sure the urethra is completely empty.
SEEK HELP for post micturition incontinence
It is important that you seek professional help if you have post micturition incontinence and any of the following symptoms:
- difficulty starting the flow of urine
- having to strain to empty your bladder
- a slow urine stream when emptying your bladder
- feeling the need to urgently empty your bladder
- burning, discomfort or pain when emptying your bladder
- blood-stained urine
- having to get up more than once during main sleep time to empty your bladder (nocturia)
- having to change your lifestyle because of problems with your bladder or bowel.
Speak to your doctor or contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.
The National Continence Helpline is staffed by Nurse Continence Specialists who offer free and confidential information, advice and support. They also provide a wide range of continence-related resources and referrals to local services.