It's pretty common for men to experience some bladder control issues after prostate surgery.

While it might be frustrating, it's important to know that there are ways to manage and improve this. Let's talk about how to take control of your bladder health post-surgery.

What causes incontinence after prostate surgery?

After prostate surgery, it's common to experience some changes in bladder control. This is because the surgery can affect the muscles and nerves that help you control your urine flow.

Why does this happen?

• Damage to Muscles and Nerves: The surgery can damage the muscles and nerves that control your bladder.
  
  
• Changes to the Bladder Neck: The bladder neck, where your bladder meets your urethra, can be affected by the surgery.

Types of incontinence after surgery:

• Stress Incontinence: This happens when you leak urine during activities that put pressure on your bladder, like coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects.
  
  
• Urge Incontinence: This is when you have a sudden, strong urge to pee and can't hold it in. You might leak urine before you reach the toilet.
  
  

While these issues can be frustrating, it's important to know that they often improve over time, and there are treatments available to help.

How severe can post-surgery incontinence be?

The severity of incontinence can vary from person to person. Some men may experience only minor leaks, while others may have more significant incontinence. It's important to note that incontinence is often worse immediately after surgery but usually improves over time.

How long will post-surgery incontinence last?

It can take between three and 12 months for men to be fully recovered post-surgery and regain bladder control. This will depend on the individual, and a diagnosis for one man might not be the same for another. During this time you need to follow the below management tips to ensure you’re making the best possible progress.

Ways to manage incontinence after prostate surgery

Don't worry, there are ways to manage and improve your condition, including:

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Just like women, men can benefit from pelvic floor exercises. These exercises can help strengthen the muscles that control your bladder and improve your continence. Talk to a healthcare professional, like a pelvic floor physiotherapist, to learn the right exercises for you.

Continence Aids

Incontinence products, or continence aids, can be a real game changer during your recovery. Here are a few options:

• Incontinence Pads and Guards: These can help manage light to moderate leaks. Look for products with features like quick absorption, odour control, and a comfortable fit.

• Incontinence Pants (Pull-Ups): For heavier leaks, incontinence pants or pull-ups can provide reliable protection and discretion.

• Waterproof bedding & protectors: If you experience urine leakage during the night, waterproof bedding and protectors are a product to consider. They come in the form of pads, fitted sheets and even duvet covers and they protect your mattress by repelling or absorbing urine leaks.

Medical Interventions

In some cases, medical interventions might be necessary. These could include:

• Urinary Sheaths: These are external devices that can help collect urine.
• Penile Clamps: These devices can help temporarily close the urethra.
• Surgical Options: In more severe cases, surgery might be an option. This could involve procedures like a sling procedure or an artificial urinary sphincter.
  
  

Remember, most men experience improvements in bladder control over time. By following your doctor's advice, doing pelvic floor exercises, and using appropriate incontinence products, you can regain control of your bladder and live a full and active life.

What if the incontinence doesn’t go away?

If you're still experiencing incontinence six months to a year after prostate surgery, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor or a pelvic floor nurse. They can assess your situation and recommend the best course of action.

Remember, it's important to stay in touch with your healthcare team throughout your recovery. They can provide guidance and support as you regain control of your bladder.