Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in men. According to the American Cancer Association 1 in 8 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. The good news is that both screening and treatment of prostate cancer has advanced in recent years!
One of the side-effects of prostate treatment is bladder incontinence. 6-8% of men develop incontinence after prostate surgery (Cleveland Clinic), so you are not alone! We answer some of the common questions about it below!
What is Incontinence?
The inability to control the flow of urine is known as urinary incontinence. Stress incontinence, while definitely causing psychological stress, actually refers to incontinence caused by stress (pressure) placed on the bladder resulting in leaks. Examples of this include coughing, laughing, picking up something heavy, golf or other sports etc.
Why does the prostate influence urination?
The prostate is a gland, roughly the size of a walnut. It is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra (the tube that transport urine from the bladder to the outside world!). When removing the prostate or receiving radiation as treatment, the nerves and muscles of the bladder, urethra and/or sphincter (circular muscle that keeps the tubes closed) which causes incontinence.
How bad is it and for how long?
Following a radical prostatectomy a catheter is usually used for 7-10 days. When this catheter is removed most men struggle to control their urine flow. The level of incontinence differs and can be anything from a dribble to full loss of bladder control. The amount of leakage generally lessens with time. Factors that can influence leaks include weight, age and whether there were urinary problem before. Most men regain bladder control between 3-12 months after surgery.
What can you do for bladder leaks?
- Lifestyle Modification
– Healthy diet that avoids bladder irritants (acidic foods, drinks, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods)
– Correct fluid intake. Both too much and too little is bad!
– Maintain a healthy body weight and ensure you are physically active.
– Quit smoking!
- Pelvic Therapists. There are many doctors and physiotherapists that specialize in pelvic health. Incontinence can often be successfully managed with the correct treatment plan!
- Good absorbent products. Choose a product that is appropriate for your level of leakage. Disposable pads and adult nappies are well known to most people. Our personal favorite for light to moderate leakage (50ml or less per leak) is washable absorbent underwear (which is why we stock them!). They look and feel like regular underwear but have a built-in absorbent pad. This pad is specially treated so prevents odor and skin irritation!
- Medical and surgical treatment. If bladder control is excessive or persists after 1 year post-surgery, there are medical and surgical options available. Ask your doctors for more information on the treatment that is appropriate for your concerns.
Would you like more information on the management of bladdder leaks? We are giving away our E-Guide FREE!
Just click below!
You may feel like you are the only one dealing with this- but I can promise you that you aren’t. If you feel that you aren’t able to manage your sysmptoms or are concerned about anything please speak to your Doctor.
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