Medically Reviewed and Compiled by Dr. Adam N. Khan, MD.
Four Stages of Passing a Kidney Stone?
Passing a kidney stone usually happens in four distinct stages: Stage 1 involves the stone breaking loose and entering the ureter, causing sharp back pain. Stage 2 is the journey through the ureter, where pain may come and go in waves. Stage 3 occurs whe
Medically Reviewed and Compiled by Dr. Adam N. Khan, MD.
Four Stages of Passing a Kidney Stone?
Passing a kidney stone usually happens in four distinct stages: Stage 1 involves the stone breaking loose and entering the ureter, causing sharp back pain. Stage 2 is the journey through the ureter, where pain may come and go in waves. Stage 3 occurs when the stone reaches the UVJ (the “waiting room” of the bladder), often causing a constant urge to pee. Stage 4 is the final exit through the urethra. Most stones under 5mm pass within 1 to 4 weeks with plenty of water and pain management.
Understanding the Journey of a Kidney Stone
If you are reading this while clutching your side, you aren’t alone. Millions of people deal with kidney stones every year. A kidney stone is essentially a small, hard mineral deposit that forms inside your kidneys. Think of it like a tiny, jagged pebble.
While the stone is sitting in your kidney, you might not feel a thing. The trouble—and the pain—starts when that pebble decides to move. To get out of your body, it has to travel through a series of narrow tubes.
This guide breaks down exactly what happens during each stage so you know what to expect and, more importantly, when you need to see a doctor.
Stage 1: The Departure (From Kidney to Ureter)
The first stage begins when the stone detaches from the wall of the kidney. At this point, the stone tries to enter the ureter. The ureter is a very thin tube that connects your kidney to your bladder.
- The Feeling: This is often the most painful stage. You will likely feel a sharp, stabbing pain in your “flank” (the area on your back, just below your ribs).
- The Reaction: Your body realizes something is blocking the flow of urine. The kidney may swell slightly, which triggers intense pain signals.
- Symptoms: You might feel nauseous or even vomit because the nerves in your digestive system are closely linked to the nerves in your kidneys.
Stage 2: The Long Haul (The Ureter Trip)
Once the stone is inside the ureter, it has to travel several inches down to the bladder. The ureter isn’t a smooth pipe; it uses muscle contractions (peristalsis) to push urine down. When a stone is stuck, these muscles squeeze even harder to try and move it.
- The Feeling: The pain during this stage usually comes in “waves.” You might feel fine for an hour, and then suddenly be in agony for thirty minutes. This is called renal colic.
- The Shift: As the stone moves lower, the pain will move from your upper back toward your lower abdomen and groin.
- What’s Happening: The stone is essentially “scraping” the inner lining of the tube. This is why you might notice your urine looking pink, red, or brown—it’s a small amount of blood caused by the stone.
Stage 3: The UVJ (Entering the Bladder)
The Ureterovesical Junction (UVJ) is the tightest spot in the entire urinary tract. It is the doorway where the ureter meets the bladder. Many stones get stuck here for a few days.
- The Feeling: The “sharp” back pain often turns into a heavy, “pressure” feeling.
- The Urge: Because the stone is irritating the entrance to the bladder, your brain thinks your bladder is full. You might feel like you have to pee every five minutes, even if only a few drops come out.
- The Sting: You might feel a burning sensation when you try to go to the bathroom.
Stage 4: The Final Exit
Good news: once the stone is in the bladder, the hardest part is usually over. The bladder is much larger than the ureter, so the stone can float around freely, often without causing any pain at all.
- The Wait: The stone may sit in the bladder for a few hours or even a few days.
- The Exit: When you finally urinate, the stone enters the urethra. Since the urethra is wider than the ureter, the stone usually pops out quickly.
- The Relief: Most people describe a “pop” or a “click” followed by an instant feeling of relief. The “war” is over.
How Long Does Each Stage Last?
There is no “one size fits all” timeline, but doctors generally follow these rules of thumb:
| Stone Size | Time to Pass | Likelihood of Passing Alone |
| Less than 2mm | 1–2 weeks | 90% |
| 2mm to 4mm | 2–4 weeks | 70% |
| 4mm to 6mm | 4–6 weeks | 50% |
| Larger than 6mm | Varies | Low (Usually needs help) |
How to Speed Up the Process
While you can’t exactly “force” a stone out, you can create the best environment for it to move.
- Water is Your Best Friend: Drink enough water so that your urine is clear. Aim for 8–10 large glasses a day. This creates “hydrostatic pressure” to help push the stone.
- Keep Moving: If you are up for it, walking or light jumping (sometimes called the “jump and bump” method) can help gravity pull the stone downward.
- Heat Therapy: A heating pad on your side or back can help relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for the stone to slide through.
- Listen to Your Doctor: They may prescribe “Alpha-blockers.” These are medications that relax the muscles in your ureter to let the stone pass with less pain.
When to Stop Waiting and Call a Doctor
Most kidney stones are a “waiting game,” but some situations are emergencies. Seek medical help immediately if:
- Fever and Chills: This is a sign of an infection. An infected kidney stone is a serious medical emergency.
- Inability to Pee: If the stone is completely blocking your flow, it can damage your kidneys.
- Uncontrollable Pain: If you cannot sit still or find any relief with over-the-counter medicine.
- Severe Nausea: If you can’t keep water or medicine down.
Common Questions About Passing Stones
Does it hurt when the stone actually comes out?
Surprisingly, for most people, the “exit” from the bladder through the urethra is the least painful part. The ureter (Stage 2) is much thinner and more sensitive than the urethra. By the time it reaches the end, the hard work is done.
Can I see the stone?
Yes, but you have to look for it. Doctors recommend using a “stone strainer” (a small mesh cup) to catch the stone. If you catch it, save it! A lab can test the stone to find out what it’s made of (calcium, uric acid, etc.), which helps you prevent getting another one in the future.
Why does the pain keep disappearing?
It is very common for the pain to stop for a day or two. This doesn’t always mean the stone has passed. It usually just means the stone has stopped moving for a moment or isn’t blocking the flow of urine at that specific time. Don’t stop drinking water just because the pain paused!
Final Thoughts
Passing a kidney stone is a test of patience and pain tolerance. By understanding the four stages—the kidney exit, the ureter journey, the bladder entrance, and the final exit—you can better manage your expectations. Stay hydrated, stay active, and keep a close eye on your symptoms.
FAQs
The time it takes to pass a kidney stone can vary. Small stones may pass within 1-2 weeks, while larger stones can take 2-3 weeks.
Symptoms include severe pain, nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine, and frequent urination.
Yes, staying hydrated, making dietary changes, and taking prescribed medications can help prevent kidney stones.
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Medical Disclaimer
All content published on medlifeguide is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.