Urethral hypermobility

Urethral hypermobility refers to the excessive movement or displacement of the urethra, a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This condition is often associated with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), a common type of urinary incontinence that occurs when physical activity such as coughing, sneezing, running or heavy lifting puts pressure on the bladder.

Causes

Urethral hypermobility is often caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support the urethra. This weakening can occur due to various factors such as childbirth, aging, obesity, and certain surgical procedures.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of urethral hypermobility is stress urinary incontinence. Other symptoms may include frequent urination, urgency to urinate, and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of urethral hypermobility typically involves a physical examination, including a pelvic exam, and may also involve tests such as a urinalysis, bladder function test, and urodynamic tests. A Q-tip test is often used specifically to diagnose urethral hypermobility.

Treatment

Treatment for urethral hypermobility often involves physical therapy to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Other treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

See also

• Urinary incontinence
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Pelvic floor dysfunction