What is Voiding Dysfunction ?

Voiding dysfunction refers to difficulty in urination due to improper coordination between the bladder and the muscles that control urination. It can lead to incomplete bladder emptying, weak urine flow, frequent urination, or urinary retention. The condition can be caused by neurological disorders, prostate problems, pelvic floor dysfunction, or habits developed over time.

 What is Dysfunctional Voiding?

Dysfunctional voiding is a specific type of voiding dysfunction where the bladder contracts against a closed or partially closed sphincter, making urination difficult. It is commonly seen in children and adults with pelvic floor muscle incoordination and can lead to urinary tract infections, incontinence, and high bladder pressures that may affect kidney function.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty starting urination (hesitancy)

• Weak, interrupted, or prolonged urine stream

• Straining to pass urine

• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

• Frequent urination, especially at night

• Urgency with urine leakage (urge incontinence)

• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Dribbling of urine after voiding

Treatment Options:

•  Pelvic floor relaxation therapy & bladder training – To improve muscle coordination

• Lifestyle modifications – Timed voiding, hydration management, and avoiding bladder irritants

• Medications – To relax the bladder and improve urine flow

• Biofeedback therapy – Helps retrain pelvic floor muscles for proper coordination

• Catheterization – In cases of severe retention or incomplete bladder emptying

• Botulinum toxin injections – For overactive bladder muscles

• Surgical interventions – If there is a structural cause for obstruction