Urethral Diverticulum

Specialized Women’s Urologic Care

A urethral diverticulum is a pocket or pouch that forms along the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. While uncommon, this condition can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, recurrent infections, pelvic pain, and bladder control issues. 

Because symptoms often overlap with other conditions, many women live with symptoms for years before receiving a diagnosis. Our Women’s Health specialists provide advanced evaluation and treatment designed to relieve symptoms and restore quality of life.

What is a Urethral Diverticulum?

A urethral diverticulum occurs when a small sac forms next to the urethra. Urine can collect inside this pouch, leading to irritation, infection, inflammation, or discomfort. 

Diverticula can vary in size and may develop gradually over time.

Some women experience significant symptoms, while others may not realize the condition is present until imaging or evaluation is performed.

Common Symptoms of Urethral Diverticulum

Symptoms can vary widely and are often mistaken for recurrent urinary tract infections or bladder conditions. 

Women may experience: 

• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Painful urination
• Frequent urination
• Urinary urgency
• Urine leakage
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Pain during intercourse
• Dribbling urine after urination
• A tender vaginal mass or fullness

Some women experience symptoms for years before diagnosis because the condition can mimic other pelvic health disorders.

What Causes Urethral Diverticulum?

The exact cause is not always clear, but urethral diverticula are often linked to:

• Repeated urinary tract infections
• Chronic inflammation of glands around the urethra
• Obstruction of periurethral glands
• Previous trauma or surgery
• Childbirth-related injury

Over time, inflammation and blockage can lead to formation of a pouch beside the urethra.

Why Diagnosis Can Be Difficult

Urethral diverticulum is relatively uncommon, and symptoms often overlap with:

• Overactive bladder
• Interstitial cystitis
• Recurrent UTIs
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Stress urinary incontinence

Specialized evaluation by a urologist experienced in women’s pelvic health is important for accurate diagnosis.

How Urethral Diverticulum is Diagnosed

Evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of urinary and pelvic symptoms. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment planning.

Diagnostic testing may include:

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on symptom severity, size of the diverticulum, and overall health. 

• Observation – Small diverticula without bothersome symptoms may simply be monitored over time. 
• Medications and Infection Management – Antibiotics or symptom management may help temporarily if infections or irritation are present. 
• Surgical Removal (Diverticulectomy) – For symptomatic diverticula, surgery is often the most effective treatment. This procedure removes the diverticulum and repairs the urethra while preserving urinary function.
  • Goals of Surgery Include:
    • Relieving pain and pressure
    • Reducing infections
    • Improving bladder control
    • Restoring quality of life

Our specialists focus on careful reconstruction and long-term outcomes.

Why Specialized Women’s Urologic Care Matters

Because this condition can mimic many other pelvic disorders, evaluation by experienced specialists is important. 

Early diagnosis and treatment can:

• Relieve chronic symptoms
• Prevent recurrent infections
• Improve bladder function
• Restore comfort and confidence

Frequently Asked Questions