Post-micturition dribble (PMD), or after-dribble, is the involuntary leakage of urine immediately after finishing urination. It is a common and often overlooked urological symptom, particularly in men. Mr Syed Ali Shahzad, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon, assesses and manages post-micturition dribble at private hospitals across Birmingham.
After-dribble occurs when urine remains in the bulbar urethra (the section of the urethra in the perineum) after voiding, and then leaks out when the patient moves or stands. It is usually caused by weakness of the bulbocavernosus and ischiocavernosus muscles of the pelvic floor, which normally squeeze the remaining urine forwards. Contributing factors include enlarged prostate, urethral stricture and pelvic floor weakness.
Post-micturition dribble affects approximately 17% of men aged 40 to 60. It often causes embarrassment and the need to wear protective pads.
The most effective first-line treatment is the bulbar urethral massage technique (“urethral milking”), in which firm pressure is applied behind the scrotum after urination to push the remaining urine into the penile urethra, where it can then be expelled. Pelvic floor exercises strengthen the muscles involved. If an underlying cause such as urethral stricture or BPH is contributing, treatment of the primary cause is important.
No GP referral is required. Mr Shahzad is recognised by BUPA, AXA, AVIVA, Vitality, Cigna and WPA. Book an appointment or contact us.