Prolonged postpartum urinary retention

Urinary retention after vaginal delivery is a relatively common problem, usually resolved by the temporary use of an indwelling catheter. Presented are two patients with persistent bladder atony after vaginal delivery, despite the use of an indwelling catheter for 10 days. Both patients had low forceps deliveries without severe perineal trauma. Both were treated by self-intermittent catheterization, with resolution of urinary retention at 24 and 37 days postpartum, respectively. These patients were able to learn this technique with minimal instruction. Advantages of intermittent catheterization over prolonged use of an indwelling catheter include greater patient acceptance and possible reduction in the incidence of urinary tract infection.