Why Does My Urine Split into Two Streams? A Urology Concern

Sometimes urine may split or diverge during urination?

Hello Dr.
Liu, I have phimosis, so I have to retract my foreskin to expose the glans before I can urinate.
However, I sometimes notice that my urine stream splits into two.
Could this be related to the retraction? I don't feel any discomfort after urinating, but I wanted to consult a doctor for reassurance.
Thank you for your guidance!

A San, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/06/04

Dr. Liu Jiaju reply Urology

Your condition may indeed be caused by pressure on the urethral opening when retracting the foreskin, leading to a split urine stream.
It is recommended that when urinating, you should not excessively retract the foreskin; exposing the urethral opening should suffice to see if the situation improves.
If the condition does not improve, it is advisable to consult a urologist for further examination.

Reply Date: 2013/06/04

More Info

When it comes to the phenomenon of urine splitting into two streams, several factors can contribute to this occurrence, particularly in individuals with a condition like phimosis (a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted).
Firstly, the anatomy of the urethra plays a significant role. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. If there is any obstruction or irregularity in the urethra, it can lead to a split stream. In your case, the presence of a long foreskin may create a situation where the urine is not expelled in a straight line. When you retract the foreskin, it may not be fully exposing the urethral opening, causing the urine to split as it exits.
Another possibility is that the urethral opening itself may be slightly narrowed or irregular, which can also lead to a bifurcation of the urine stream. This can happen due to various reasons, including inflammation, scarring, or congenital anomalies.
Additionally, the position of the body during urination can influence the stream. If you are not standing straight or if there is any tension in the pelvic area, it can affect how the urine flows out.
While you mentioned that you do not experience any discomfort after urination, which is a positive sign, it is still advisable to monitor the situation. If the splitting of the stream persists or worsens, or if you begin to experience any pain, discomfort, or changes in urination patterns, it would be prudent to consult a urologist. They can perform a thorough examination, which may include a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any underlying issues such as urethral strictures or infections.

In summary, the splitting of urine into two streams can be attributed to anatomical factors, such as the position of the foreskin and the urethral opening, as well as potential obstructions or irregularities in the urethra. While it may not be a cause for immediate concern if there are no accompanying symptoms, keeping an eye on the situation and seeking medical advice if necessary is always a wise approach.

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