The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside world. Occasionally this “tube” develops a weak spot that forms a small outpouching or herniation on the side — called urethral diverticulum.
Symptoms vary but may including dribbling urine after you urinate, pain with urination, pain with intercourse, recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, the sensation of a vaginal mass or discharge from the urethra.
If a urethral diverticulum is suspected on exam, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or ultrasound may be ordered. Cystoscopy may also be performed to directly visualize the urethra.
If you are not bothered by symptoms, you may be managed with non-surgical therapy. If treatment is necessary, a surgical procedure through the vagina called Urethral Diverticulectomy is typically performed to repair the defect.