To better understand urethral syndrome, it helps to understand the anatomy of the genitourinary system.

The urethra drains urine from the bladder. Muscles surrounding the urethra control the flow of urine during urination. The urethra normally allows the flow of urine when these muscles are relaxed.

In males, the urethra starts at the bladder, goes through the prostate, and ends at the tip of the penis. In females, the urethra is very short. It also starts at the bladder, but ends about one inch away near the opening of the vagina.

Anatomy examples:

• Genitourinary system
• Bladder and lower urinary tract in women
• Bladder and lower urinary tract in men