Urethral diverticulum, predominantly found in females, is a pouch or cyst adjacent to the urethral wall, sometimes protruding into the vaginal wall. It affects approximately one to six percent of women, primarily between the ages of 40 and 70 years.
Causes of Urethral Diverticulum
The exact cause is unclear, but potential risk factors include:
- Birth defects, which may become problematic during pregnancy or other conditions
- Inflammation of glands next to the urethra
- Vaginal birth or trauma is one of the most common causes
- Repeated urinary tract infections that weaken the urethra, causing herniation of the mucosa against the outer muscular walls
Symptoms of Urethral Diverticulum
While some women may have no symptoms, others experience:
- Dysuria (burning sensation during urination; the most common symptom)
- Dyspareunia (pain during intercourse)
- Frequent urinary tract infections, also called cystitis
- Post-urination dribbling (affecting up to 32 percent of women with the condition)
- Vaginal mass
- Hematuria (blood in urine)
- Bladder infections
- Urinary incontinence
- Urinary tract obstruction
- Vaginal discharge or pus, particularly during physical examination
- Pain during urination
- Pain during the physical exam when gentle pressure is applied to the vaginal mass
- Incomplete bladder emptying
Diagnosis and Treatment of Urethral Diverticulum
Urethral diverticulum is often misdiagnosed due to symptom overlap with more common conditions. However, advancements in imaging techniques have improved diagnostic accuracy. Diagnostic methods include physical examination, urinalysis, imaging tests, ultrasound, cystoscopy, and urodynamic studies.
Surgical removal of the diverticulum through excisional surgery is typically required. In cases of infection progressing to an abscess, transvaginal aspiration may be performed.
Choose UCI Pelvic Health Center for Urethral Diverticulum Treatment
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as painful urination, recurrent urinary tract infections, or vaginal discomfort, you might be dealing with urethral diverticulum — a condition often misdiagnosed due to its overlapping symptoms with more common ailments. At UCI Pelvic Health Center, we specialize in accurately diagnosing and effectively treating urethral diverticulum, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Urethral diverticulum is a condition predominantly affecting women, particularly those between the ages of 40 and 70 years. It involves a pouch or cyst forming adjacent to the urethral wall, which can cause significant discomfort and complications if not properly treated. Our experienced team at UCI Pelvic Health Center understands the complexities of this condition and provides comprehensive, personalized care.
Our diagnostic approach includes the latest imaging techniques, physical examinations, and advanced tests such as urinalysis, cystoscopy, ultrasound, and urodynamic studies. These tools allow us to accurately identify urethral diverticulum, even when it presents symptoms similar to other conditions. Early and precise diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and improved outcomes.
Treatment at UCI Pelvic Health Center is tailored to your specific needs. Our specialists are skilled in minimally invasive surgical techniques, including excisional surgery to remove the diverticulum. In cases where infection has led to an abscess, we offer transvaginal aspiration to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.