Abdominal Distension Before Urination: Causes and Concerns

Q: Abdominal Distension Before Urination: Causes and Concerns

Yaya： Hello, it is difficult to determine if there is a problem without further examination. It is recommended to seek medical treatment. 1. Take actual photos of the swelling in the lower abdomen. 2. Measure the circumference of the lower abdomen before and a

When you feel the urge to urinate, your lower abdomen becomes distended?

I recently noticed something unusual over the past few days.
After coming home from school and needing to use the bathroom, I observed that my lower abdomen appears significantly larger before urination compared to after.
Specifically, the area below my navel seems to swell and feels somewhat firm before I urinate, but it returns to normal afterward.
I'm unsure what this could mean.
Additionally, I have a habit of holding in my urine and prefer not to use the restroom at school.
Could this be related to my habit of holding in urine?

Ya Ya, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/02/26

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Yaya: Hello, it is difficult to determine if there is a problem without further examination.
It is recommended to seek medical treatment.
1.
Take actual photos of the swelling in the lower abdomen.
2.
Measure the circumference of the lower abdomen before and after urination with a measuring tape to observe any changes.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Responses on the internet can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to visit a medical facility for evaluation.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Chief of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2014/02/26

More Info

Understanding abdominal distension before urination can be concerning, especially when you notice a significant change in the size and firmness of your abdomen. The phenomenon you describe—where your lower abdomen appears larger and firmer before urination and returns to normal afterward—can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that the bladder is located in the lower abdomen. When it fills with urine, it expands, which can cause the abdomen to protrude and feel firmer. This is a normal physiological response. The bladder can hold a considerable amount of urine, and as it fills, it pushes against surrounding structures, leading to the sensation of fullness and the visible distension you are experiencing.

Your habit of holding in urine, or "holding it," can exacerbate this issue. When you delay urination, the bladder continues to fill, leading to increased pressure and discomfort. Over time, this can lead to a few complications, such as urinary retention, bladder overactivity, or even urinary tract infections (UTIs). Holding urine for extended periods can also weaken the bladder muscles, making it harder to empty completely when you finally do go. This could potentially lead to a cycle of discomfort and increased urgency.

Additionally, the hardness you feel in your abdomen could be related to the tension in the abdominal muscles as they contract in response to the pressure from the full bladder. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, it might be worth considering other factors such as diet, hydration levels, and overall bladder health. For instance, dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which may cause irritation in the bladder and urinary tract, leading to discomfort.

If you notice that the distension is accompanied by pain, changes in urination patterns (such as increased frequency, urgency, or difficulty urinating), or any other concerning symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend a urinalysis or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions such as bladder stones, infections, or other abnormalities.

In summary, the changes you are observing in your abdomen before and after urination are likely related to the normal filling and emptying of your bladder. However, your habit of holding urine could contribute to discomfort and potential complications. It is advisable to develop a routine that allows for regular bathroom breaks to avoid the negative effects of urinary retention. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is essential to ensure your urinary and abdominal health.

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