Ureteral Stents

A Patient Guide from Fore River Urology

A ureteral stent is a thin, flexible, plastic tube placed inside the ureter—the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder. Stents help urine drain properly from the kidney, especially after procedures for kidney stones or during certain urinary emergencies.

Why Is a Ureteral Stent Needed?

Your urologist may place a stent:

After kidney stone surgery, to keep urine flowing despite swelling in the ureter
To prevent obstruction from stone fragments, blood clots, or inflammation
To relieve pain or infection caused by an obstructing stone
To prevent ureteral spasms and ensure proper healing
In emergency cases where a stone is infected or causing severe pain

Stents may be left with or without a string attached to help with later removal.

Common Symptoms While the Stent Is In Place

It’s normal to experience mild to moderate symptoms while a stent is in place. These may include:

Frequent or urgent urination
A burning sensation or discomfort during urination
Blood in the urine (pink or red discoloration)
Pressure or pain in the bladder, lower abdomen, or lower back
A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

These symptoms are often temporary and can be managed with hydration and medications.

How to Manage Stent Discomfort

To reduce symptoms while your stent is in place:

Drink plenty of fluids to flush the urinary system
Use a heating pad or take a warm bath for back or bladder discomfort
Take medications as prescribed, which may include:
- Tylenol or NSAIDs (ibuprofen)
- Tamsulosin (Flomax) to relax the ureter
- Oxybutynin or Pyridium for bladder spasms or burning
- Narcotics or Valium (used rarely, for severe discomfort)

Are There Activity Restrictions with a Stent?

Physical activity: No formal restrictions, but you may notice more blood in your urine with increased activity.
Work, social life, and travel: Most patients can continue daily activities. It’s safe to travel with a stent.
Sex: If your stent has a string, intercourse may be uncomfortable or not recommended. Without a string, most patients can resume sexual activity as tolerated.

How Is a Ureteral Stent Removed?

Stents are usually removed 5–7 days after surgery in our office, though some may stay in longer if needed. Removal is typically quick and well-tolerated:

A small scope (cystoscope) is used to view the bladder and slide the stent out
The procedure usually takes under 2 minutes
If your stent has a string, it may be removed at home or in the office
We recommend hydrating and taking pain medication before removal

What to Expect After Stent Removal

Most patients feel better quickly after stent removal, but some may experience:

Cramping or aching in the bladder or flank
Nausea or mild urinary urgency
Blood in the urine

These symptoms usually resolve within 24–48 hours. Keep drinking fluids and use medications as directed to stay comfortable.

When to Call Fore River Urology

Fever over 101.4°F
Severe pain that is not controlled with medication
Inability to urinate
Persistent nausea, vomiting, or dehydration
The stent falls out prematurely

What Symptoms Are Common and Not Dangerous?

These are expected and usually do not require medical attention:

Burning or pain with urination
Frequent or urgent urination
Mild flank or bladder discomfort
Blood in the urine
Feeling like the bladder isn’t completely empty

Need Help or Have Questions?

The team at Fore River Urology is here to help you through your recovery and make sure your kidney and bladder are healing properly.

Call us at 207-518-6600
Or request an appointment online