Sex Advice

Dear Dr. Locker: What do I do if I urinate during sex?

Answer from Dr. Locker

There is a biological mechanism (the urethral sphincter) that makes it so people usually do not urinate during sex. However, it does sometimes happen. If you urinate during sex, see a doctor. It could indicate a bladder issue that might require medical help. If not a bladder problem, it could be "stress incontinence" which means that your urethral sphincter or pelvic floor muscles are weakened. This is common for women who are getting older, or women who have had multiple vaginal births, or for women or men who are obese, smokers, or who have certain medical problems. So see your doctor.

If your doctor says everything’s fine, then there are some other things you can do. Urinate right before sex, so it may be less likely to happen. Try sex positions that put less pressure on your bladder. Also, don’t be embarrassed about putting a towel down on the bed first. You may want to try Kegel exercises, too. For info about Kegels, read this: *What are Kegel exercises? Can they tighten a woman's vagina? Do they do anything for men? Exactly how are Kegels done?

Incidentally, some women leak a fluid that is not urine when then have an orgasm. While it’s rare, they may emit a fluid (which some research finds is from their Skene's glands inside their vagina), which can come out of her urethra. So if it does not seem like urine, then there may be something else going on.

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