US Medical Term · anatomy
Ureter
Uréter
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Ureter |
| Spanish (Español) | Uréter |
| Chinese (中文) | 輸尿管 |
| Korean (한국어) | 요관 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Niệu quản |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Ureter |
| Portuguese (Português) | Ureter |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ท่อไต |
| Japanese (日本語) | 尿管 |
What it means
The ureters are two thin muscular tubes, one connected to each kidney, that carry urine from the kidneys down to the bladder. Each ureter is roughly 10 to 12 inches long. Urine moves through the ureter by waves of muscle contractions rather than by gravity alone. The most common problem affecting ureters is a kidney stone getting stuck inside one, which causes sudden, severe pain that can radiate to the groin. This is called ureterolithiasis or ureteral obstruction. Infections can also affect the ureters. In some cases, the ureter may be blocked and need a small tube called a stent to keep it open.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
The doctor said a kidney stone is stuck in my ureter and causing the pain.
El médico dijo que tengo un cálculo renal atascado en el uréter y eso causa el dolor.
I have pain from my back down to my groin — could it be my ureter?
Tengo dolor desde la espalda hasta la ingle — ¿podría ser el uréter?
Will I need a stent in my ureter to help the stone pass?
¿Necesitaré un catéter en el uréter para ayudar a que pase el cálculo?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026