The pressure variations at the maximal urethral closure pressure (MUCP) were continuously recorded in healthy female volunteers by means of a two-point microtip transducer catheter for one hour. Before the investigation a normal voiding was assured objectively and bladder instability was excluded.All women showed pressure variations both at the MUCP and more distally. The pressure variations, from 3 to 66 cm H20, showed rhythmicity and three frequency ranges could be identified. Slow pressure waves with a frequency of one in eight to 19 minutes were observed. Relatively fast-pressure waves were observed (one every one to four minutes) and relatively fast-frequency pressure waves were observed (rate: one to eight per minute).The pressure variations of the urethra seem to be an aspect of normal urethral physiology possibly contributing to continence and urinary tract infection prevention.
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