What treatments are available for urinary retention?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Urinary retention is typically treated by inserting a catheter to drain the bladder. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may also include medications to relax the bladder or prostate, or surgery to remove blockages. Prompt care is important to prevent complications like infections or kidney damage.

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Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn what’s causing urinary retention now Discover if urinary retention needs urgent care See if your symptoms suggest urinary retention Find OTC options for urinary retention symptoms Find a doctor for urinary retention care Understand home remedies for urinary retention relief Find out if it could be urinary retention

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Explanation

Urinary retention happens when someone cannot empty their bladder completely. If symptoms are severe, it may become necessary to treat the urinary retention with a catheter. A catheter is a thin tube that is inserted into the bladder to help drain urine. This can bring quick relief and prevent damage to the bladder.

In some cases, medications might be used to help relax the muscles around the bladder and improve urine flow. These medications can be especially helpful if the urinary retention is caused by an enlarged prostate or other similar issues.

Sometimes, if medications and catheter use are not enough, surgery might be needed. Surgery can help fix any blockages or other problems that might be causing urinary retention. If you're experiencing urinary symptoms and want to better understand what might be causing them, try this free symptom checker before speaking with a healthcare provider to find out what treatment is best for you.

(References)

Fitzpatrick JM, & Kirby RS. (2006). Management of acute urinary retention. BJU international, 16507048.
Selius BA, & Subedi R. (2008). Urinary retention in adults: diagnosis and initial management. American family physician, 18350762.
Serlin DC, Heidelbaugh JJ, & Stoffel JT. (2018). Urinary Retention in Adults: Evaluation and Initial .... American family physician, 30277739.

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