Prevalence, Aetiology and Treatment of Post-Micturition Dribble in Men

• Published in: Physiotherapy 2002, Vol.88 (4), p.225-234
• Main Author: Dorey, Grace
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: bulbocavernosus muscle; men; pelvic floor muscle exercises; Post-micturition dribble
• ISSN: 0031-9406; 1873-1465
• DOI: 10.1016/S0031-9406(05)60414-2

This literature review of post-micturition dribble in men revealed only eight papers. Three papers identified the prevalence while one described the action of the bulbocavernosus muscle. Two randomised controlled trials and one non-randomised controlled trial were found which explored the effect of pelvic floor muscle exercises on post-micturition dribble and one study investigated the effect of post-micturition dribble on sexual dysfunction. Results suggested that the cause of post-micturition dribble is failure of the bulbocavernosus muscle to perform a normal reflex post-void milking mechanism or urethrocavernosus reflex. Suggested treatment consisted of bulbar urethral massage for immediate self-help and pelvic floor exercises targeted at the bulbocavernosus and ischiocavernosus muscles for an improvement or alleviation of the condition. Men may also benefit from a functional post-void muscle contraction termed ‘squeeze-out' to help develop the normal post-void milking mechanism. Further good quality multi-centre trials are necessary to provide evidence on which to base practice.