Does Menstruation Cause Frequent Urination? the Connection

Can menstruation cause frequent urination?

Is it common to experience frequent urination before and during menstruation? I started having frequent urination around August 7th and visited a urologist on August 14th.
The urologist said there was no infection in the urethra, but I had a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
I was prescribed medication for overactive bladder.
My period started on August 17th, and I am still experiencing frequent urination.
Could menstruation be affecting this?

Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/19

Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Wang,
Frequent urination can be influenced by many factors, including psychological, physiological, and lifestyle habits.
A further examination is necessary, and it is recommended to consult a gynecologist with expertise in urology.

Dr.
Huang Zifei, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2020/08/19

More Info

Menstruation can indeed influence urinary patterns, including frequent urination. This phenomenon is often attributed to hormonal fluctuations, particularly the changes in estrogen and progesterone levels that occur during the menstrual cycle.
During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which occurs after ovulation and before menstruation, progesterone levels rise. This hormone can have a relaxing effect on the bladder, but it can also lead to increased fluid retention. As menstruation approaches, the body may begin to retain more fluid, which can lead to increased urinary frequency. Additionally, as the menstrual cycle progresses and menstruation begins, the uterus expands and can exert pressure on the bladder, further contributing to the feeling of needing to urinate more frequently.

In your case, it seems that you began experiencing frequent urination around August 7, and your menstrual cycle started on August 17. The timing suggests that your symptoms could be related to your menstrual cycle. The fact that your urologist found no signs of infection and prescribed medication for overactive bladder (OAB) indicates that your symptoms may not be due to a urinary tract infection but rather related to bladder sensitivity or overactivity, which can be influenced by hormonal changes.

Moreover, the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying that you mentioned could also be exacerbated by the hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle. Some women report that their urinary symptoms fluctuate with their menstrual cycle, experiencing more pronounced symptoms during certain phases.
It is also important to consider that psychological factors, such as anxiety about urinary symptoms, can play a role in how frequently one feels the need to urinate. If you are feeling anxious about your urinary symptoms, this could lead to a heightened awareness of your bladder and an increased urge to urinate, which can create a cycle of anxiety and frequent urination.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to keep a diary of your urinary habits in relation to your menstrual cycle. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and determine if your symptoms are indeed linked to your menstrual cycle or if there may be other underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In conclusion, while menstruation can influence urinary frequency due to hormonal changes and physical pressure on the bladder, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. If you continue to experience discomfort or if your symptoms significantly impact your quality of life, further evaluation may be warranted to rule out other potential causes and to explore appropriate treatment options.

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