Editing Functional: Neural Control of Storage and Voiding (section)

== Emptying Phase of the Bladder ==

* '''The storage phase of the bladder can be “switched” to the voiding phase either involuntarily reflexively or voluntarily'''
* '''The expulsion phase consists of:'''
*# '''Initial relaxation of the urethral sphincter'''
*#* A decrease in outlet resistance occurs with adaptive shaping or funneling of the relaxed bladder outlet
*# '''Followed in a few seconds by a contraction of the bladder, an increase in bladder pressure, and the flow of urine'''
* '''Relaxation of the urethral smooth muscle during micturition is mediated by activation of a parasympathetic pathway to the urethra that triggers the release of NO, an inhibitory transmitter, and by removal of excitatory [sympathetic] inputs to the urethra.'''
* '''Secondary reflexes elicited by flow of urine through the urethra facilitate bladder emptying'''