Dribbling of urine after urinating: symptoms

Dribbling of a few drops of urine immediately after you finish urinating is commonly called post-micturition dribble (PMD) or “after-dribble.” It is especially common in men and does not automatically mean prostate disease. Usually, a small amount of urine remains trapped in the urethra and leaks out when you move.

Common causes

• Weak pelvic-floor muscles — a very common cause.
• Incomplete emptying of the urethra after urination.
• Enlarged prostate (BPH), particularly if accompanied by weak stream, difficulty starting, frequent urination, or a feeling of incomplete emptying.
• Previous prostate/pelvic surgery.
• Constipation/straining, being overweight, chronic coughing, or some neurological conditions can contribute.

What you can do

1. Urethral “milking” after urination
Wait a few seconds after finishing. Then gently press the area behind the scrotum and move your fingers forward toward the base of the penis. This helps push trapped urine out of the urethra. Repeat twice.

2. Pelvic-floor (Kegel) exercises
Regular pelvic-floor exercises can strengthen the muscles involved in emptying the urethra and controlling urine. Improvement can take several weeks to a few months.

3. Treat the underlying cause if present
If you also have poor urine flow, difficulty starting, frequent/urgent urination, nighttime urination, or incomplete emptying, a doctor may evaluate for BPH or another urinary-tract problem. Treatment can range from lifestyle measures to medication or, in selected cases, procedures.

When to see a doctor

Please see a doctor/urologist if the dribbling is persistent or is accompanied by burning/pain, blood in urine, fever, difficulty passing urine, a significantly weak stream, frequent urgency, or inability to empty the bladder.