Bladder Control After Prostate Surgery
Is bladder control after prostate surgery a struggle for you? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. In fact, many men face this challenge as they recover and it’s well documented. For example, persistent and bothersome urinary leakage following prostatectomy is a commonly reported side effect of the surgery, with reports ranging from a 1% to 40% incidence, depending on how incontinence is defined.¹ The good news is that there are effective ways to regain control and overcome incontinence. In this article, we will explore various strategies and techniques that can help you manage and eventually eliminate this inconvenience from your life.
One important aspect of overcoming incontinence is understanding the underlying causes. During prostate surgery, the sphincter muscles responsible for urinary control can become weakened or damaged, which can lead to leakage and difficulties in holding urine. By understanding the factors contributing to your incontinence, you can adopt specific exercises, lifestyle changes, and even consider medical devices like the Contino urethral insert to manage the issue effectively.
Types of Prostate Surgery That May Lead to Incontinence
Several types of prostate surgery can lead to urinary incontinence, including:
- Radical Prostatectomy:
- Doctors often perform this procedure to treat prostate cancer by completely removing the prostate gland. Because the prostate surrounds the urethra, removing it can disrupt the urinary sphincter muscles, leading to stress incontinence.
- Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP):
- Commonly performed to relieve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) also known more commonly as enlarged prostate, TURP involves removing a portion of the prostate. While generally less invasive, this procedure can still affect urinary control, especially if the surgical technique impacts the sphincter muscles.
- Laser Prostate Surgery:
- Similar to TURP, laser procedures for treating BPH can lead to post-surgical incontinence if the surgical team affects the urinary muscles or nerves.
- Radiation Treatment for Prostate or Bladder Cancer:
- While not a surgery per se, radiation treatments targeting the pelvic region can cause scarring or damage to the urethral tissue, the urethral sphincter, and/or the nerves that control it.
Understanding the specific type of surgery you’ve undergone can provide insights into the nature and expected duration of incontinence. It also helps in selecting the most appropriate management strategy, whether through exercises, lifestyle changes, or additional medical devices.
Treatment Options to Improve Bladder Control after Prostate Surgery
There are various approaches to managing incontinence after prostate surgery. Alongside pelvic floor exercises and lifestyle changes, some men may benefit from medical devices like the Contino urethral insert. This device provides a discreet and comfortable alternative to pads, diapers, and additional surgeries by controlling leaks at the source, allowing you to return to your daily activities with confidence.
- Pelvic Floor Exercises:
- Also known as Kegel exercises, these help strengthen the muscles involved in bladder control. Regular practice can significantly reduce leakage over time.
- Bladder Training:
- Gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits can help retrain the bladder to hold more urine and improve control.
- Medications and Surgical Options:
- When exercises and training alone aren’t enough, doctors often prescribe medications to relax bladder muscles. For those who don’t respond to other treatments, surgeons may consider options like sling procedures or artificial urinary sphincters.
- Medical Devices:
- Devices like the Contino urethral insert are available to provide effective, non-invasive solutions for managing leakage. Contino offers a viable alternative for men who want to avoid pads, diapers, or further surgeries, by offering direct control over bladder leaks. See more about Contino at https://mycontino.com.
Improve Bladder Control after Prostate Surgery with Professional Help and Support
While you can practice many strategies at home, consulting healthcare professionals like urologists or continence specialists provides personalized guidance. They can recommend specific treatments, including options like Contino, and help monitor progress over time. Support groups, both in-person and online, also offer valuable resources for sharing experiences and learning from others facing similar challenges.
Conclusion
Overcoming incontinence after prostate surgery is a journey that requires patience and determination. By understanding the causes, exploring various treatment options, and considering devices like the Contino urethral insert, you can regain control and improve your quality of life. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. With the right support and resources, you can manage incontinence effectively and regain your sense of independence.
¹Turk J Urol. 2014 Mar; 40(1): 1–8.
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