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How can prostate enlargement interfere with urination?
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reproductive system disease
Varicocele, enlargement of the veins of the spermatic cord, is a cause of infertility in men.
Because the prostate gland surrounds the urethra—the duct responsible for transporting urine from the urinary bladder—any enlargement of the gland can compress this passage. This constriction leads to several complications with urination, including:12
- Progressive obstruction: The narrowing of the urethra restricts the flow of urine, often resulting in a weak or intermittent stream.31
- Incomplete emptying: The bladder may never fully empty, leaving behind stagnant urine that can lead to infections or the formation of bladder stones.1
- Voiding difficulties: Individuals may experience an inability to void, frequent or painful urination, or a constant dribbling of urine.31
In severe cases, the bladder muscle may thicken to compensate for the obstruction, and urine may back up into the kidneys, potentially causing progressive damage or kidney failure. Such enlargement, whether caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia or malignancy, requires medical evaluation to manage these symptoms and prevent further health complications.124