Medical Glossary
Clear definitions of medical terms related to bladder health. Click a letter to jump to terms starting with that letter.
A
Amitriptyline
Also known as: Elavil
A tricyclic antidepressant used at low doses for chronic bladder pain, particularly in interstitial cystitis. It works by blocking nerve pain signals and has antihistamine and anticholinergic effects that can also reduce urgency and frequency. Typically prescribed at much lower doses (10-75mg) than for depression.
Anticholinergic
Also known as: Antimuscarinic, Cholinergic blocker
A class of medications that block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. In bladder treatment, anticholinergics reduce involuntary detrusor muscle contractions, decreasing urgency, frequency, and urge incontinence. Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. Long-term use has been linked to increased dementia risk.
Antimuscarinics
Also known as: Anticholinergics, Bladder relaxants
A class of medications that block the action of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors in the bladder muscle. They are commonly prescribed for overactive bladder to reduce urgency, frequency, and urge incontinence.
Augmentation Cystoplasty
Also known as: Bladder augmentation, Clam cystoplasty
A major surgical procedure to increase bladder capacity by incorporating a segment of bowel into the bladder wall. Reserved for severe cases of overactive bladder or interstitial cystitis that have not responded to other treatments. Patients may need to self-catheterise after surgery.
B
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Also known as: BPH, Enlarged prostate, Prostate enlargement
A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in older men. As the prostate grows, it can squeeze the urethra and cause difficulty urinating, weak stream, and increased frequency.
Biofeedback
Also known as: Pelvic floor biofeedback
A technique that uses sensors and visual or auditory feedback to help patients learn to control normally involuntary body functions. In pelvic floor rehabilitation, biofeedback teaches patients to correctly identify, contract, and relax their pelvic floor muscles, improving outcomes for incontinence and voiding dysfunction.
Biofilm
Also known as: Bacterial biofilm
A structured community of bacteria that adheres to surfaces and is enclosed in a protective matrix. Biofilms on the bladder wall or urinary tract can resist antibiotics and the immune system, making them a significant factor in recurrent urinary tract infections.
Bladder Diary
Also known as: Voiding diary, Frequency-volume chart
A record kept over several days of fluid intake, urination times, voided volumes, urgency episodes, and leakage episodes. It provides objective data about bladder function and is a standard first-line assessment tool for urinary symptoms including overactive bladder and incontinence.
Bladder Instillation
Also known as: Intravesical therapy, Intravesical instillation
A treatment in which medication is delivered directly into the bladder via a catheter. Solutions used include hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulphate, DMSO, lidocaine, and heparin. Instillations allow high concentrations of medication to reach the bladder lining while minimising systemic side effects.
Bladder Spasms
Also known as: Detrusor spasms
Sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder muscle (detrusor), causing an urgent need to urinate and sometimes pain. They can occur due to infection, nerve damage, or after bladder surgery.
Bladder Training
Also known as: Bladder retraining, Bladder drill
A behavioural technique used to increase the time between trips to the toilet. Patients gradually extend the intervals between voiding using urge suppression strategies, relaxation techniques, and distraction. Bladder training is a first-line treatment for overactive bladder and urge incontinence.
Botox (Bladder)
Also known as: Botulinum toxin, OnabotulinumtoxinA
Botulinum toxin injected directly into the bladder wall muscle to treat overactive bladder or neurogenic bladder. It works by partially paralysing the detrusor muscle to reduce involuntary contractions.
C
Catheter
Also known as: Urinary catheter, Foley catheter, Indwelling catheter
A thin, flexible tube inserted into the bladder through the urethra (or abdomen) to drain urine. Catheters are used when a patient cannot urinate on their own, during surgery, or for diagnostic testing.
Chondroitin Sulphate
Also known as: Chondroitin sulfate, CS
A glycosaminoglycan component of the bladder GAG layer. Used as a bladder instillation (brand name Gepan) to help repair the protective lining of the bladder in interstitial cystitis. Often used in combination with hyaluronic acid for enhanced effectiveness.
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Also known as: CPP, Pelvic pain syndrome
Persistent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis lasting more than six months. It can arise from bladder, bowel, reproductive, or musculoskeletal sources, and frequently involves multiple overlapping conditions. Management typically requires a multidisciplinary approach including urology, gynaecology, physiotherapy, and pain management.
Clean Intermittent Catheterisation
Also known as: CIC, ISC, Intermittent self-catheterisation
A technique in which a thin catheter is inserted through the urethra to drain the bladder at regular intervals, then removed. It is the preferred method of bladder management for people who cannot empty their bladder completely. Patients or carers are taught to perform the procedure themselves.
Continence Nurse Specialist
Also known as: Continence advisor, Continence specialist
A specialist nurse trained in the assessment and management of bladder and bowel problems. Continence nurses provide advice on pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, catheter care, and continence products. They are often the first point of specialist contact for people with urinary symptoms in the NHS.
Cranberry
Also known as: Cranberry extract, Cranberry PACs
A fruit widely used for urinary tract health. Cranberry contains proanthocyanidins (PACs) that may prevent bacteria, particularly E. coli, from adhering to the bladder wall. Available as juice, capsules, or tablets. Research supports a modest reduction in UTI recurrence, particularly in women with recurrent infections.
CT Urogram
Also known as: CTU, CT KUB
A specialised CT scan that examines the kidneys, ureters, and bladder using intravenous contrast dye. It provides detailed images of the urinary tract and is used to investigate haematuria, kidney stones, and suspected tumours. It has largely replaced the older intravenous urogram (IVU).
Cystectomy
Also known as: Bladder removal, Radical cystectomy
Surgical removal of all or part of the bladder. Radical cystectomy (complete removal) is primarily performed for bladder cancer and requires urinary diversion. Partial cystectomy removes only the affected portion. In rare cases, cystectomy is considered for end-stage interstitial cystitis that has not responded to any other treatment.
Cystitis
Also known as: Bladder inflammation
Inflammation of the bladder, most commonly caused by a bacterial infection (urinary tract infection). Symptoms include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and lower abdominal discomfort.
Cystometry
Also known as: Cystometrogram, CMG, Filling cystometry
A urodynamic test that measures pressure inside the bladder as it fills and empties. It helps diagnose detrusor overactivity, poor bladder compliance, and sensory abnormalities. The test involves inserting a thin catheter into the bladder and filling it with saline while recording pressure changes.
Cystoscopy
Also known as: Bladder scope, Flexible cystoscopy
A diagnostic procedure in which a thin camera (cystoscope) is inserted through the urethra to examine the inside of the bladder. It is used to investigate symptoms such as blood in the urine, recurrent infections, or bladder pain.
D
D-Mannose
Also known as: Mannose
A naturally occurring simple sugar related to glucose. It is used as a dietary supplement to help prevent urinary tract infections by stopping certain bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall.
Desmopressin
Also known as: DDAVP, Noqdirna, Desmotabs
A synthetic form of the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. It reduces urine production by the kidneys and is used to treat nocturia and nocturnal polyuria. Available as tablets, nasal spray, or sublingual melt. Requires monitoring of sodium levels due to the risk of hyponatraemia.
Detrusor Muscle
Also known as: Bladder muscle, Detrusor
The smooth muscle forming the wall of the bladder. When it contracts, urine is expelled. Involuntary contractions of the detrusor cause the urgency and frequency associated with overactive bladder. Detrusor underactivity causes difficulty emptying the bladder.
Detrusor Muscle
Also known as: Detrusor, Bladder muscle
The smooth muscle in the wall of the bladder responsible for contracting during urination to push urine out. Dysfunction of this muscle can lead to overactive bladder or urinary retention.
Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO)
Also known as: DMSO, RIMSO-50
A chemical solvent used as a bladder instillation treatment for interstitial cystitis. DMSO has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and muscle-relaxant properties. It is instilled directly into the bladder via catheter and retained for 15-20 minutes. It is one of the few instillation treatments with regulatory approval for IC.
Dysuria
Also known as: Painful urination, Burning urination
Pain or discomfort during urination, often described as a burning sensation. It is a common symptom of urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, and bladder inflammation.
E
Electromyography (EMG)
Also known as: EMG, Pelvic floor EMG
A test that measures the electrical activity of muscles. In urology, EMG of the pelvic floor and sphincter muscles is used during urodynamic testing to assess coordination between the bladder and sphincter. Poor coordination (detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia) can cause voiding difficulties.
Elimination Diet
Also known as: IC diet, Bladder diet
A dietary approach used to identify foods that trigger bladder symptoms. It involves removing all known bladder irritants (citrus, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, artificial sweeteners) for a period, then reintroducing them one at a time while monitoring symptoms. The IC Network and Interstitial Cystitis Association publish specific IC diet guidelines.
F
Flexible Cystoscopy
Also known as: Outpatient cystoscopy
A procedure using a thin, flexible telescope to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra. Performed under local anaesthetic as an outpatient, it takes approximately 5 minutes. Used to investigate symptoms such as haematuria, recurrent infections, and lower urinary tract symptoms.
Frequency-Volume Chart
Also known as: Bladder diary, Voiding diary
A diary kept by the patient recording the times and volumes of fluid intake and urine output over 24 to 72 hours. It helps clinicians assess bladder capacity, drinking habits, and patterns of urinary frequency or nocturia.
Fulguration
Also known as: Cauterisation, Electrofulguration
A surgical procedure using electrical current or laser to destroy abnormal tissue. In bladder treatment, fulguration is used to cauterise Hunner lesions found in interstitial cystitis. The procedure is performed during cystoscopy under anaesthesia and can provide symptom relief, though lesions may recur.
G
Glomerulation
Also known as: Petechial haemorrhage, Pinpoint bleeding
Small pinpoint areas of bleeding (petechial haemorrhages) visible on the bladder wall during cystoscopy with hydrodistension. Historically considered a hallmark finding of interstitial cystitis, though they can also occur in other bladder conditions and in some people without symptoms.
Glomerulonephritis
Also known as: Nephritis, Glomerular disease
Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys that remove waste from the blood. It can cause blood in the urine, protein in the urine, and reduced kidney function. May be acute or chronic.
Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) Layer
Also known as: GAG layer, Bladder mucous layer, Glycosaminoglycan
A protective mucous layer coating the urothelium of the bladder. Made up of glycosaminoglycans including hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulphate, it prevents bacteria, toxins, and irritants in urine from penetrating the bladder wall. Deficiency of the GAG layer is considered a key factor in interstitial cystitis.
H
Hematuria
Also known as: Blood in urine
The presence of blood in the urine. Gross hematuria is visible to the eye, while microscopic hematuria is detected only through laboratory testing. Causes range from infections to bladder cancer.
Hunner Lesion
Also known as: Hunner ulcer, Hunner patch
A distinctive inflammatory patch or ulcer found on the bladder wall in a subset of interstitial cystitis patients (approximately 5-10%). Hunner lesions are visible during cystoscopy and can be treated with fulguration or steroid injection. Their presence defines a specific subtype of IC.
Hyaluronic Acid
Also known as: Sodium hyaluronate, HA
A naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan that forms part of the protective GAG layer of the bladder. Synthetic sodium hyaluronate is used as a bladder instillation to help restore the damaged bladder lining in interstitial cystitis and radiation cystitis. Brand names include Cystistat and Hyacyst.
Hydrodistension
Also known as: Bladder distension, Bladder stretch
A procedure performed under general anaesthesia in which the bladder is filled with fluid and stretched to its maximum capacity. Used both as a diagnostic tool for interstitial cystitis (to look for glomerulations or Hunner lesions) and as a treatment that can temporarily relieve symptoms.
Hydronephrosis
Also known as: Kidney swelling
Swelling of one or both kidneys caused by a build-up of urine. It occurs when urine cannot drain properly from the kidney to the bladder, often due to a blockage such as a kidney stone or enlarged prostate.
I
Interstitial Cystitis
Also known as: IC, Painful bladder syndrome, IC/BPS
A chronic bladder condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain. The pain ranges from mild discomfort to severe. It is also known as painful bladder syndrome.
J
Juxtaglomerular Apparatus
Also known as: JGA
A specialised structure in the kidney located near each glomerulus that regulates blood pressure and filtration rate. It plays a key role in the renin-angiotensin system, which influences kidney function and fluid balance.
K
Kegel Exercises
Also known as: Pelvic floor exercises, PFE
Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles by repeatedly contracting and relaxing them. They are a first-line treatment for stress urinary incontinence and can help with urgency and prolapse.
Kidney Stones
Also known as: Renal calculi, Nephrolithiasis, Urolithiasis
Hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract and may lead to urinary obstruction, infection, or blood in the urine.
L
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS)
Also known as: LUTS
A group of symptoms related to problems with the bladder, urethra, or (in men) the prostate. LUTS are categorised as storage symptoms (urgency, frequency), voiding symptoms (weak stream, hesitancy), or post-micturition symptoms (dribbling).
M
Mast Cell
Also known as: Mastocyte
A type of immune cell found in bladder tissue that releases histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Elevated numbers of mast cells in the bladder wall are a characteristic finding in interstitial cystitis and are thought to contribute to pain, urgency, and frequency.
Methenamine Hippurate
Also known as: Hiprex, Methenamine
A urinary antiseptic used as a preventive treatment for recurrent urinary tract infections. It works by converting to formaldehyde in acidic urine, which kills bacteria. Unlike antibiotics, bacteria do not develop resistance to it, making it useful for long-term UTI prevention.
Micturition
Also known as: Urination, Voiding
The medical term for the act of urinating. The micturition reflex is the coordinated process by which the bladder contracts and the urethral sphincter relaxes to allow urine to pass.
Mirabegron
Also known as: Betmiga, Beta-3 agonist
A beta-3 adrenergic agonist medication used to treat overactive bladder. It works by relaxing the detrusor muscle during bladder filling, reducing urgency and frequency. Unlike anticholinergic medications, it does not typically cause dry mouth or constipation.
N
Neurogenic Bladder
Also known as: Neuropathic bladder
Bladder dysfunction caused by damage to the nervous system. Conditions such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and stroke can disrupt the nerve signals that control bladder function.
Neuropathic Pain
Also known as: Nerve pain
Pain caused by damage or dysfunction of the nervous system rather than by tissue injury. In bladder conditions, neuropathic pain can result from nerve sensitisation and may present as burning, shooting, or stabbing sensations. It often requires different treatment approaches than inflammatory pain, including medications like amitriptyline or gabapentin.
Nocturia
Also known as: Night-time urination, Nighttime frequency
The need to wake up during the night to urinate. Waking more than once per night is generally considered abnormal and may indicate an underlying bladder condition or other medical issue.
O
Overactive Bladder (OAB)
Also known as: OAB, Detrusor overactivity
A condition characterised by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate, often accompanied by increased urinary frequency and nocturia. It may or may not involve urge incontinence.
Oxybutynin
Also known as: Ditropan, Lyrinel
An anticholinergic medication commonly prescribed for overactive bladder. It reduces involuntary bladder contractions and is available as tablets, liquid, or skin patches. Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.
P
Pad Test
Also known as: Pad weight test, 1-hour pad test, 24-hour pad test
An objective test to measure the severity of urinary incontinence. The patient wears a pre-weighed incontinence pad for a set period (usually 1 or 24 hours) while performing normal activities, and the pad is re-weighed to determine the amount of urine leakage.
Pelvic Floor
Also known as: Pelvic floor muscles, Pelvic diaphragm
A group of muscles and connective tissue that form a sling across the base of the pelvis. These muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus, and play a key role in urinary continence and bladder control.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Also known as: Pelvic floor physical therapy, Pelvic floor rehabilitation
A specialised form of physiotherapy focused on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic floor. Treatment may include exercises, manual therapy, biofeedback, and electrical stimulation. It is a first-line treatment for stress incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and some forms of pelvic pain.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Also known as: Prolapse, Cystocele, Bladder prolapse
A condition where one or more pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, or rectum) drop from their normal position and bulge into the vaginal wall. Bladder prolapse (cystocele) is the most common form.
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium
Also known as: Elmiron, PPS
An oral medication approved for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. It is thought to work by helping to restore the protective GAG layer of the bladder lining. Treatment requires several months before benefits may be noticed. Long-term use has been associated with a risk of pigmentary maculopathy affecting vision.
Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation
Also known as: PTNS, Tibial nerve stimulation, Urgent PC
A minimally invasive neuromodulation treatment for overactive bladder. A thin needle electrode is inserted near the tibial nerve at the ankle and delivers electrical stimulation that travels to the sacral nerve plexus controlling the bladder. Treatment involves weekly 30-minute sessions over 12 weeks.
Post-Void Residual
Also known as: PVR, Residual urine, Post-void residual volume
The amount of urine remaining in the bladder after urination, typically measured by ultrasound or catheterisation. A normal PVR is less than 50ml. Elevated residuals may indicate incomplete bladder emptying due to obstruction, detrusor weakness, or neurological conditions.
Probiotics
Also known as: Lactobacillus, Live cultures
Live micro-organisms that, when taken in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit. In urinary health, certain Lactobacillus strains may help prevent UTIs by maintaining the vaginal microbiome and competing with pathogenic bacteria. Probiotics are available as supplements, yoghurts, and fermented foods.
Prostatitis
Also known as: Prostate inflammation
Inflammation of the prostate gland, which can cause painful urination, pelvic pain, and difficulty urinating. It can be acute (sudden bacterial infection) or chronic (long-term inflammation).
Pumpkin Seed Oil
Also known as: Cucurbita pepo
An oil extracted from pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo) used as a natural supplement for urinary symptoms. Studies suggest it may help reduce nocturia and overactive bladder symptoms. It contains phytosterols, fatty acids, and antioxidants that may support prostate and bladder health.
Q
Quality of Life (QoL) Questionnaires
Also known as: QoL assessment, ICIQ, OAB-q
Standardised tools used to measure how bladder conditions affect a patient's daily life, emotional well-being, and social activities. Common examples include the ICIQ and OAB-q, which help clinicians assess symptom severity and treatment outcomes.
Quercetin
Also known as: Quercetin dihydrate
A plant flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties found in onions, apples, berries, and green tea. It has been studied for interstitial cystitis due to its ability to inhibit mast cell activation and reduce bladder inflammation. Available as a dietary supplement.
R
Radiation Cystitis
Also known as: Post-radiation bladder damage
Bladder inflammation and damage caused by radiation therapy, typically for pelvic cancers. Symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pain, and may appear months or years after treatment.
S
Sacral Neuromodulation
Also known as: SNS, InterStim, Sacral nerve stimulation
A treatment that uses a small implanted device to deliver mild electrical pulses to the sacral nerves that control bladder function. Used for overactive bladder and urinary retention that has not responded to conservative treatments. Also known by the brand name InterStim.
Saw Palmetto
Also known as: Serenoa repens
An extract from the fruit of the Serenoa repens palm, commonly used as a herbal remedy for benign prostatic hyperplasia and lower urinary tract symptoms in men. It may work by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase and reducing prostate inflammation. Evidence for its effectiveness is mixed.
Sling Procedure
Also known as: TVT, TOT, Mid-urethral sling, Mesh sling
A surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence in which a strip of synthetic mesh or tissue is placed under the urethra to provide support. The most common types are the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and transobturator tape (TOT). Sling surgery has high success rates but carries risks including mesh complications.
Solifenacin
Also known as: Vesicare
An anticholinergic medication prescribed for overactive bladder, specifically targeting the M3 muscarinic receptors in the bladder. It is taken once daily and helps reduce urgency, frequency, and urge incontinence episodes.
Sphincter (Urinary)
Also known as: Urethral sphincter, External urinary sphincter
A ring of muscle that controls the opening and closing of the urethra. The internal sphincter operates involuntarily, while the external sphincter is under voluntary control. Weakness or damage to either can cause urinary incontinence.
Suprapubic Catheter
Also known as: SPC, Suprapubic tube
A catheter inserted directly into the bladder through the abdominal wall above the pubic bone. It provides an alternative to urethral catheterisation for long-term bladder drainage and may be more comfortable and carry a lower risk of urethral damage than a standard catheter.
T
Tolterodine
Also known as: Detrusitol
An anticholinergic medication used to treat overactive bladder symptoms. Available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. It may have fewer side effects than some older anticholinergics.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Also known as: TENS
A non-invasive pain relief method using a small battery-operated device that delivers mild electrical impulses through electrode pads placed on the skin. In bladder conditions, TENS can help manage pain associated with interstitial cystitis and may reduce urgency and frequency.
Trigone
Also known as: Vesical trigone
A smooth, triangular area on the inner floor of the bladder formed between the two ureteric openings and the internal urethral opening. It is a common site of inflammation (trigonitis) and is particularly sensitive to infection and irritation.
U
Urethral Sphincter
Also known as: External urethral sphincter, Internal urethral sphincter
A ring of muscle surrounding the urethra that controls the flow of urine out of the bladder. The internal sphincter operates involuntarily, while the external sphincter is under voluntary control. Weakness or dysfunction of the sphincter contributes to stress urinary incontinence.
Urethral Stricture
Also known as: Urethral narrowing
A narrowing of the urethra caused by scar tissue, which can restrict urine flow. Causes include injury, infection, instrumentation, and inflammation. It is more common in men.
Urethritis
Also known as: Urethral inflammation
Inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. It is commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections and can cause painful urination and discharge.
Urge Suppression
Also known as: The Knack, Urge control
A set of techniques used to manage sudden, strong urges to urinate without rushing to the toilet. Methods include pelvic floor contractions, deep breathing, mental distraction, and standing still until the urge passes. It is a core component of bladder training programmes for overactive bladder.
Urinalysis
Also known as: Urine test, Dipstick test
A laboratory test that examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine. It can detect signs of infection, blood, protein, glucose, and other abnormalities. Urinalysis is often the first investigation for urinary symptoms.
Urinary Diversion
Also known as: Urostomy, Ileal conduit, Neobladder
A surgical procedure to redirect urine flow when the bladder is removed or bypassed. Options include an ileal conduit (urostomy), continent catheterisable pouch, or neobladder reconstruction using bowel tissue. The choice depends on the patient, the underlying condition, and surgical factors.
Urinary Fistula
Also known as: Vesicovaginal fistula, Bladder fistula
An abnormal connection between the urinary tract and another organ, such as the vagina (vesicovaginal fistula) or bowel (vesicointestinal fistula). It causes continuous involuntary leakage of urine through the abnormal passage.
Urinary Frequency
Also known as: Frequent urination, Pollakiuria
The need to urinate more often than usual, typically more than eight times in 24 hours. It can be caused by infections, overactive bladder, excessive fluid intake, or bladder irritants.
Urinary Incontinence
Also known as: Bladder leakage, Loss of bladder control
The involuntary leakage of urine. Types include stress incontinence (leaking during physical activity), urge incontinence (sudden overwhelming need to urinate), and mixed incontinence (a combination of both).
Urinary Microbiome
Also known as: Bladder microbiome, Urobiome
The community of micro-organisms naturally present in the urinary tract. Once believed to be sterile, the bladder is now known to harbour a diverse microbial community. Changes in the urinary microbiome may influence susceptibility to UTIs, overactive bladder, and other urinary conditions.
Urinary Retention
Also known as: Bladder retention
The inability to completely empty the bladder. Acute retention is a sudden inability to urinate and is a medical emergency. Chronic retention develops gradually and may cause overflow incontinence.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Also known as: UTI, Bladder infection, Water infection
An infection in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs involve the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra) and are caused by bacteria.
Urinary Urgency
Also known as: Urgency, Urge to urinate
A sudden, compelling desire to urinate that is difficult to defer. It is a hallmark symptom of overactive bladder and can lead to urge incontinence if the bladder contracts involuntarily.
Urine Culture
Also known as: MSU, Mid-stream urine, Culture and sensitivity, C&S
A laboratory test where a urine sample is incubated to identify the specific bacteria causing an infection and determine which antibiotics will be effective against them. Results typically take 24 to 48 hours. Essential for managing recurrent or complicated UTIs.
Urodynamics
Also known as: Urodynamic testing, Urodynamic studies
A group of tests that measure how well the bladder, urethra, and sphincter muscles store and release urine. These tests help diagnose the cause of urinary incontinence, retention, or other lower urinary tract symptoms.
Uroflowmetry
Also known as: Flow rate test, Urine flow test
A non-invasive test that measures the rate and pattern of urine flow. The patient urinates into a special device that records flow rate, voided volume, and voiding time. Abnormal flow patterns can indicate bladder outlet obstruction, detrusor weakness, or other urinary conditions.
Urogynaecology
Also known as: Urogynecology, Female pelvic medicine
A medical subspecialty focusing on urinary and pelvic floor disorders in women. Urogynaecologists diagnose and treat conditions including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, overactive bladder, and recurrent UTIs. They have training in both gynaecology and urology.
Urothelium
Also known as: Transitional epithelium, Bladder lining
The specialised epithelial lining of the bladder and urinary tract. It acts as a barrier between urine and the underlying tissue, and plays a key role in bladder defence. Damage to the urothelium is thought to contribute to interstitial cystitis and painful bladder syndrome.
V
Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR)
Also known as: VUR, Urine reflux
A condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and sometimes the kidneys. It is most common in infants and young children and increases the risk of kidney infections.
Voiding Dysfunction
Also known as: Lower urinary tract dysfunction
A broad term describing any abnormality in the storage or emptying of urine from the bladder. It includes conditions ranging from overactive bladder and incontinence (storage problems) to urinary retention and incomplete emptying (voiding problems). Assessment typically involves urodynamic testing.
W
WOC Nurse
Also known as: Continence nurse, Continence adviser
A Wound, Ostomy, and Continence nurse — a specialist nurse trained in the management of patients with urinary or faecal incontinence, stomas, and complex wounds. They provide education, catheter care, and pelvic floor rehabilitation.
X
X-ray KUB
Also known as: KUB X-ray, Plain abdominal film
A plain abdominal X-ray focused on the Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder. It is used to detect kidney stones, bladder stones, and other calcifications in the urinary tract. KUB stands for Kidneys-Ureters-Bladder.
Y
Young-Dees-Leadbetter Procedure
Also known as: Bladder neck reconstruction
A surgical technique used to reconstruct the bladder neck to improve urinary continence. It is most commonly performed in children with congenital bladder conditions such as bladder exstrophy.
Z
Zone of Transition (Prostate)
Also known as: Transitional zone, TZ
The inner region of the prostate gland surrounding the urethra. It is the zone where benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) develops, leading to prostate enlargement and urinary obstruction in older men.