Why Do I Struggle to Start Peeing?

This article was medically authored by Dr. Ryan Armstrong and last reviewed for accuracy on 03/25/2026.

If you struggle to start peeing, or the flow of your urine is weak once it begins, the problem could be your prostate. For men—especially those over the age of 50—these symptoms, described as urinary hesitancy, could be the result of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia.) This post helps you understand BPH symptoms, and offers suggestions on how to find relief—without undergoing surgery!

Why Do I Struggle to Start Peeing?

As men age, the prostate gland gradually starts to grow. And, due to its location just below the bladder, when it becomes enlarged, the prostate can press against the urethra (the tube through which urine flows), making it harder to pee. You may also experience additional symptoms such as weak urinary flow; a sudden, urgent need to pee; or an inability to full empty your bladder when you urinate.

Why is it Hard to Pee? Urinary Hesitancy Causes

For men over the age of 50, a struggle to start peeing is most often the result of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (enlarged prostate.) However, urinary hesitancy could also be the result of an obstructed urethra, urinary tract infection or even nerve issues. In women, pelvic floor dysfunction can also leave you struggling to pee.

Help for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS)

For men who struggle to start peeing because of an enlarged prostate, there are several different treatment options that allow you to avoid surgery. When symptoms are mild, you may be able to alleviate discomfort by making lifestyle changes such as managing your fluid intake or following a diet for enlarged prostate support. Symptoms that don’t respond to lifestyle modifications may improve with medication. But if you still experience urinary hesitancy or other BPH symptoms after trying these interventions, Prostatic Artery Intervention can provide relief—without surgery, or the risk of sexual side effects. To learn more about this minimally-invasive treatment option, reach out to our team and request a consultation at one of our seven Texas Endovascular locations in the greater Houston and Dallas area.