Incidence and risk factors of postpartum urinary retention following cesarean section: a retrospective nationwide inpatient sample database study

In this study, we identified an overall prevalence of 0.20% for urinary retention after CS and several risk factors, including advanced maternal age, Asian and Pacific Islander background, comorbidities, and delivery in large or teaching hospitals, particularly in the Eastern region. Protective factors included hospitals in the southern region, urban hospitals, obesity, and hypertension. Urinary retention was associated with increased postoperative complications, longer LOS, and higher healthcare costs. Several confounders also significantly influenced the incidence of urinary retention. To mitigate these risks, healthcare professionals should prioritize antenatal screening, manage comorbidities, and closely monitor high-risk patients during the postpartum period to reduce adverse outcomes.