What Is the Difference Between Overactive Bladder (OAB) in Men and Women?

Family Medicine, Primary Care Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center

Supervised by Kenji Taylor, MD

Overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms can be similar to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but OAB is a separate condition that affects both men and women differently.

Explanation

Overactive bladder (OAB) is characterized by detrusor overactivity, which leads to a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate, often resulting in frequent urination and potential incontinence. While both men and women can experience OAB, there are important distinctions:

Symptoms: The symptoms of OAB can resemble lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which are often associated with BPH in men. However, OAB is a distinct condition and does not stem from BPH itself. Men with OAB may also have BPH, but their OAB symptoms do not respond to treatments specifically designed for BPH.
Underlying Causes: In women, hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, can affect bladder sensitivity and contribute to OAB. In contrast, men may experience OAB symptoms alongside BPH, but the mechanisms driving OAB are different from those causing LUTS.
Treatment Responses: Treatments for OAB may not be effective for men whose urinary issues are primarily due to BPH. This highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis to ensure appropriate therapy.

Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential for anyone experiencing symptoms of OAB or LUTS, so they can receive a tailored and effective treatment plan.

(References)

Eapen RS, Radomski SB. Gender differences in overactive bladder. Can J Urol. 2016 Feb;23(Suppl 1):2-9. PMID: 26924589.
Herrewegh, A. G. M., Vrijens, D. M. J., Marcelissen, T. A. T., & van Koeveringe, G. A. (2019). Bladder sensations in male and female overactive bladder patients compared to healthy volunteers: a sensation-related bladder diary evaluation. _Scandinavian Journal of Urology_, _53_(4), 255–260. https://doi.org/10.1080/21681805.2019.1641551
Pautz A, Michel MC. Sex and Gender Differences in the Pharmacology of the Overactive Urinary Bladder. Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2023;282:57-74. doi: 10.1007/164_2023_667. PMID: 37439844.

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