Ureteral Stent — Explained by Medical Evidence, Not Myths

A ureteral stent is a soft, flexible tube placed inside the ureter to keep urine moving from the kidney to the bladder. It is commonly used for kidney stones, swelling, narrowing, or after urologic procedures, and it is usually temporary.

What a ureteral stent is and why it is used

A ureteral stent is a thin, flexible tube placed inside the ureter, the narrow channel that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Its job is simple: keep urine flowing when the ureter is blocked, narrowed, irritated, or healing after a procedure. In most cases, the stent is temporary and is removed once the underlying problem improves.

The term can sound more serious than it is. A ureteral stent does not replace the ureter or permanently stay in the body in most patients. Instead, it acts as an internal support, helping urine bypass swelling, a stone, scar tissue, or pressure from nearby structures. This can protect the kidney from back-pressure and reduce the risk of infection or kidney damage.

Doctors most often place a stent for problems such as kidney stones, ureteral narrowing, inflammation, or after endoscopic stone treatment. It may also be used when a person has an infection with obstruction, after surgery involving the urinary tract, or when a tumor or pregnancy-related compression affects drainage. The decision depends on the cause, symptoms, imaging findings, and overall health.

How a ureteral stent works and how it is placed

A ureteral stent is designed with curls or loops at both ends, often called a “double-J” shape. One end sits in the kidney and the other in the bladder. These curls help hold the stent in position and allow urine to pass through and around it.

Placement is usually done by a urologist, often during cystoscopy, a procedure that uses a small camera passed through the urethra into the bladder. From there, the stent is guided into the ureter. Depending on the situation, this may happen during treatment for a stone, after kidney stone treatment, or as a separate procedure to relieve obstruction.

Many placements are performed with anesthesia or sedation, so the patient is comfortable. In some cases, imaging guidance is used, especially if access is difficult. A short external string may occasionally be left attached to help with later removal, but many stents are fully internal.

After placement, a person usually goes home the same day unless there is infection, severe pain, or another reason to stay in hospital. The medical team explains how long the stent should remain in place and when follow-up is needed. This schedule matters because stents should not be forgotten or left longer than advised.

Common symptoms and side effects while the stent is in place

Living with a ureteral stent can feel unusual, but many symptoms are expected and do not mean something is wrong. The most common effects are urinary urgency, needing to urinate more often, a burning feeling during urination, and discomfort in the lower abdomen, pelvis, side, or back. Some people notice that discomfort is worse during or just after passing urine.

Small amounts of blood in the urine are also common, especially after activity or in the first days after placement. The urine may look pink, light red, or tea-colored at times. Mild fatigue or bladder irritation can occur as the body adjusts to the stent.

Symptoms vary from person to person. Some people function almost normally, while others find the stent more bothersome. Factors that influence symptoms include the stent’s size and position, individual sensitivity, the underlying condition, and how active the person is during recovery.

These symptoms are different from warning signs of a complication. Expected symptoms are usually manageable and fluctuate. New fever, severe uncontrolled pain, vomiting, heavy bleeding, or difficulty passing urine are not typical and should be discussed promptly with a doctor.

Why someone may need a ureteral stent

The most frequent reason for a ureteral stent is obstruction, meaning urine cannot flow freely from the kidney to the bladder. This can happen when a stone blocks the ureter, when swelling narrows the passage, or when scar tissue develops after inflammation, surgery, or previous procedures. A stent relieves pressure and protects kidney function while the cause is treated.

Stents are also commonly used after urologic procedures. After ureteroscopy, for example, the ureter may be temporarily swollen or irritated. A stent can support drainage while the lining heals and reduce the chance of short-term blockage from edema or stone fragments.

Other causes include external pressure on the ureter from pelvic conditions, enlarged structures, or tumors. In some patients, a congenital or acquired narrowing of the ureter needs temporary or repeated stenting. Doctors also may place a stent urgently when infection occurs together with obstruction, because trapped infected urine can become dangerous if not drained.

The need for a stent does not always mean surgery is the final answer. Sometimes it is a bridge to recovery, further tests, or another planned treatment. In other cases, longer-term stent management is part of care when the underlying cause cannot be corrected right away.

Diagnosis, follow-up, and how long a stent stays in

Before placing a ureteral stent, doctors usually assess symptoms, urine tests, blood tests, and imaging. Ultrasound, X-ray, or computed tomography may be used to look for stones, swelling of the kidney, or another source of obstruction. If infection is suspected, urine culture and prompt treatment are important.

After placement, follow-up is not just routine paperwork. It confirms that the stent is still needed, that the kidney is draining well, and that the underlying problem is improving or being treated. Depending on the reason for placement, the person may need repeat imaging, clinic visits, or another procedure.

How long a stent remains in place varies widely. Some are removed within days or a few weeks, while others stay in longer and may need scheduled exchange. The timing depends on the diagnosis, the type of stent, and the treatment plan. Patients should always know their planned removal or exchange date.

Forgotten stents are a preventable problem. If left too long, a stent can become encrusted with mineral deposits, increase infection risk, or become harder to remove. For that reason, patients should keep written records, use reminders, and contact their doctor if the follow-up date is unclear or delayed.

Treatment, symptom relief, and stent removal

Treatment does not stop with the stent itself. The stent manages drainage, but the underlying issue still needs attention. That may include antibiotics for infection, treatment of a stone, further imaging, or evaluation of narrowing or external compression. In selected cases, related procedures such as laser lithotripsy may be part of the overall plan.

To ease common stent symptoms, doctors often recommend drinking enough fluids unless another medical condition limits intake, avoiding activities that clearly worsen discomfort, and using prescribed medicines if needed. Some people benefit from short-term pain relief or medicines that reduce bladder irritation, but the choice should be individualized by a clinician.

Stent removal is often simpler than placement. Many stents are removed in clinic with a small scope through the urethra, while some with a retrieval string can be removed in a different way if the doctor advises it. The process is usually brief, though temporary burning, urgency, or mild blood in the urine may occur afterward.

If a person needs repeated stent changes or more complex treatment, a specialist may discuss other options based on the cause of obstruction. Near the end of care planning, some international patients may choose centers such as Acibadem International, where multidisciplinary specialists in JCI-accredited hospitals diagnose and treat urinary tract conditions.

Self-care, practical tips, and when to seek medical care

Daily self-care focuses on comfort and prevention. Patients are usually advised to stay hydrated, take medicines exactly as prescribed, and avoid holding urine for long periods. Rest can help in the first days, but gentle movement is often fine unless the doctor recommends restrictions. If exercise, lifting, or long travel makes symptoms worse, it may help to reduce those activities temporarily.

It is also useful to track symptoms. A note of urine color, pain level, fever, and urinary changes can help during follow-up. People should ask in advance about bathing, sexual activity, work duties, travel, and what to expect after removal so there are no surprises.

Medical care should be sought promptly for fever, chills, worsening flank pain, heavy bleeding, persistent vomiting, inability to urinate, signs of dehydration, or symptoms that are suddenly much worse than before. These can suggest infection, significant blockage, migration of the stent, or another problem that needs timely assessment.

People should also contact their doctor if they think the stent may have been passed, if a visible string changes length unexpectedly, or if they miss the planned removal or exchange date. A ureteral stent is generally safe and effective, but best results depend on clear follow-up and communication with a qualified urologist.

Frequently asked questions

Is a ureteral stent painful?

A ureteral stent can cause discomfort, but the experience varies widely. Common symptoms include urinary urgency, frequency, burning, and pain in the bladder, side, or back, especially during or after urination. Severe pain is not typical and should be discussed with a doctor.

How long can a ureteral stent stay in place?

The safe duration depends on the type of stent and the reason it was placed. Some are removed after a few days or weeks, while others need scheduled exchange if they must remain longer. Patients should always confirm the planned removal date with their urologist.

Can someone live normally with a ureteral stent?

Many people can continue most daily activities with a ureteral stent, although they may need to slow down if symptoms flare. Hydration, pacing physical activity, and following medical advice can help. If work or travel is planned, it is reasonable to ask the doctor about any temporary limitations.

What does blood in the urine mean with a ureteral stent?

A small amount of blood in the urine is common with a ureteral stent, especially after activity or soon after placement. The urine may appear pink or lightly red at times. Heavy bleeding, clots, or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a clinician.

How is a ureteral stent removed?

Many stents are removed during a short clinic procedure using a small scope passed through the urethra into the bladder. Some stents have a string that may allow removal in a different way if the doctor recommends it. Mild burning or urgency afterward is common and usually short-lived.

Can a ureteral stent cause infection?

A ureteral stent can be associated with infection, although not every urinary symptom means infection is present. Fever, chills, worsening pain, or feeling generally unwell are more concerning signs and need prompt medical review. Follow-up and timely removal or exchange help reduce complications.

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor about your individual situation.