When a person desperately needs to urinate but is “holding it in,” what is happening?

Answer 1

When a person desperately needs to urinate but is holding it in, they are consciously contracting the muscles of the bladder and urethra to temporarily prevent the release of urine. This can lead to discomfort and an increased urge to urinate as the bladder continues to fill. Holding it in for extended periods of time can also lead to potential health risks such as urinary tract infections or urinary retention.