Urination Issues: Causes and Solutions for Young Men - Urology

Share to:

Urinary problems


Hello Doctor, I have the following questions.
I have noticed that when I urinate, the flow stops halfway, and then after a few seconds, it continues again, only to stop after a few seconds and then resume.
It doesn't finish in one continuous flow, and I end up with dribbling at the end, followed by a small stream and then more dribbling.
Today, during a follow-up for prostatitis, I asked my doctor about this, and he mentioned that since I am only 21 years old, it is unlikely to be due to benign prostatic hyperplasia, so he advised me to continue monitoring the situation.
I would like to know what could be causing this? Could it be related to frequent masturbation (over 25 times a month) or the prostatitis? What impact could this have on my health? Is it something to be concerned about, or is it relatively normal? How can I improve this situation? Thank you, Doctor.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/21

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology


It sounds like there may be inflammation of the prostate, and excessive masturbation can also have an impact.
In addition to receiving comprehensive treatment in an outpatient setting, it is important to reduce the frequency of self-stimulation and to engage in regular exercise to maintain both physical and mental health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/21

More Info


Urination issues in young men can be concerning and often lead to questions about underlying causes and potential solutions. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a form of urinary hesitancy or intermittent flow, which can be frustrating and uncomfortable. While your doctor has indicated that at 21 years old, you are unlikely to have benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), there are several other factors that could contribute to your symptoms.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that the urinary system is complex and can be influenced by various physiological and psychological factors. In young men, issues such as urinary hesitancy or interrupted flow can sometimes be attributed to pelvic floor dysfunction, which may involve the muscles that control urination. If these muscles are tense or not functioning properly, they can lead to difficulties in starting or maintaining a steady urine stream.

Another potential factor could be related to your frequency of masturbation. While masturbation is a normal and healthy activity, excessive frequency—such as 25 times a month—can sometimes lead to temporary changes in sexual function or urinary habits. However, it is essential to note that masturbation itself is not directly linked to urinary flow issues. Instead, it may be more about how your body is responding to stress or tension in the pelvic area.

Additionally, you mentioned that you have been diagnosed with prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate). This condition can lead to a variety of urinary symptoms, including pain, urgency, and changes in flow. Prostatitis can be caused by bacterial infections or other non-bacterial factors, and it can sometimes lead to chronic symptoms that may require further evaluation and treatment.

To address your concerns and improve your symptoms, consider the following recommendations:
1. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Engaging in pelvic floor exercises, commonly known as Kegel exercises, can help strengthen the muscles involved in urination. This can improve control and reduce symptoms of hesitancy or dribbling.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which may irritate the bladder and exacerbate urinary symptoms.

3. Relaxation Techniques: Stress and anxiety can impact urinary function. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce tension in the pelvic area and improve overall urinary function.

4. Regular Check-ups: Continue to monitor your symptoms and maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary, including tests to rule out any underlying conditions.

5. Limit Irritants: Certain foods and beverages, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, can irritate the bladder. Consider reducing these in your diet to see if your symptoms improve.

6. Avoid Holding Urine: If you feel the urge to urinate, try to respond promptly rather than holding it in for extended periods. This can help train your bladder and improve your flow.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be concerning, they are not uncommon among young men. By taking proactive steps to address potential contributing factors and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, you can work towards improving your urinary health. If you have any further questions or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek additional medical advice.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Urinary Issues and Erectile Concerns in Young Men

Hello, doctor. I am a 19-year-old young man. This past July, during the summer vacation, I started experiencing frequent urges to urinate, sometimes multiple times within an hour. However, when I went to the bathroom, I found that the urine volume was not much. I later visited a ...


Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology
Hello, Xiao Jie. After thoroughly reviewing the full text, my initial conclusion is that "you may be overthinking, which has led to psychogenic erectile dysfunction." I suggest you avoid unnecessary worries. If you are still concerned, please visit a urology clinic for ...

[Read More] Understanding Urinary Issues and Erectile Concerns in Young Men


Understanding Urinary Issues: Insights for Young Men with Frequent Urination

Hello, Doctor Hsu: I am a 23-year-old male who has never engaged in sexual intercourse. Since my glans can freely expose itself during an erection, I have not undergone circumcision. I would like to ask you about some urinary issues. About two years ago, I began to experience fre...


Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
I think that since the previous treatment by the physician was effective, my suggestion here is to return to that specialist. The diagnosis I provided may not necessarily be effective and could also be incorrect.

[Read More] Understanding Urinary Issues: Insights for Young Men with Frequent Urination


Understanding Frequent Urination and Penile Discomfort in Young Men

Hello Doctor, I am a 21-year-old male. It is said that my family has a hereditary tendency to develop kidney stones. I drink more than 2000 cc of water daily. I have been working out for two months, but since elementary school, I have often experienced frequent urination. For exa...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) Masturbating early in the morning is not likely to cause issues; it may be related to a bladder problem. It is recommended to consult a urologist for examination. 2) If the erection is painful and severe, it is abnormal and medical attention should be sought.

[Read More] Understanding Frequent Urination and Penile Discomfort in Young Men


Understanding Urination Issues: Causes and Solutions for Relief

I have had the habit of holding in my urine since high school. I have to exert force to urinate successfully, and sometimes I feel my bladder is very full but I still can't urinate. What kind of examinations should I undergo? I am preparing to enlist in the military and hope...


Dr. Song Zhixian reply Urology
In men over the age of 50, benign prostatic hyperplasia can cause bladder outlet obstruction, leading to difficulties in urination. In younger men, urinary difficulties are often due to poor relaxation of the urethral sphincter. Urination primarily involves two actions: bladder c...

[Read More] Understanding Urination Issues: Causes and Solutions for Relief


Related FAQ

Urination

(Urology)

Bph

(Urology)

Urination

(Family Medicine)

Erectile Dysfunction

(Urology)

Frequent Urination

(Urology)

Urination

(Pediatrics)

Semen

(Urology)

Hypospadias

(Urology)

Phimosis

(Urology)

Urethritis

(Urology)