Paruresis: Overview and Implications for Treatment

Abstract

Paruresis or psychogenic urinary retention is a functional disorder of micturition characterized by psychosomatic symptomatology that includes an inability to void urine in public facilities. Through largely non-experimental studies and case reports, clinical investigators have identified characteristics, behaviors, and etiological factors associated with the disorder. Although few reports about paruresis appear in the literature, a review is presented to describe the disorder and compare treatments used. As adjuncts to a multifaceted approach to treatment, the 1948 Kegel exercises and the use of beta-adrenergic blocking drugs are specific methods for alleviating the maladaptive symptomatology.