Overview
Urinary retention is the inability to empty the bladder completely. It can be acute (sudden inability to urinate) or chronic (gradual difficulty emptying the bladder).
Causes
In women, causes can include obstruction (e.g., from pelvic organ prolapse), nerve damage, infection, or side effects of medications.
Treatment
Catheterization
Immediate relief involves draining the bladder with a catheter.
Addressing the Cause
Treatment focuses on the underlying issue, such as repairing prolapse or adjusting medications.