Urinary Incontinence After Prostate Surgery? Here’s What To Do

Male urinary incontinence after prostate surgery is common, with some reports estimating up to 40 percent of those who have their prostates removed experience some form of incontinence. Most cases will resolve independently with time, and they can regain control. However, in roughly 6 to 8 percent of these cases, people may develop long-lasting incontinence.

Luckily, various treatment options exist, from at-home interventions to surgical ones. Learn your options and how working with a board-certified urologist can help you regain control.

Exercises and Medication

Initially, your doctor may recommend pelvic floor exercises or kegels. By strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, you may be able to gain control of the bladder and decrease or eliminate incontinence. It may be a good idea to begin pelvic floor exercises after surgery as that is when they provide the best benefit.

Alongside exercises, your urologist may also recommend certain medications that help decrease incontinence rates. Make sure you consult with your urologist to understand the potential side effects you may face.

What To Do When Those Don’t Work?

In some instances, exercises and medications alone may not work. There are a variety of procedures that may be employed to help the issue.

Urethral Blocking

This outpatient procedure has a scope placed into the bladder and a bulking agent placed into the sphincter to help aid greater control. Urethral blocking isn’t available for every case of incontinence, so speak with your urologist.

Urinary Sphincter

A urinary sphincter is an implant that functions as an artificial sphincter. A saltwater-filled balloon controlled by a pump placed in the scrotum is connected to a ring placed around the urethra. By pressing the pump, the ring is relaxed, and urine is allowed to flow freely.

The urinary sphincter is capable of treating even severe cases of persistent incontinence.

Slings

Capable of treating mild to moderate urinary incontinence, urethral slings are implanted to help elevate the urethra to a position that promotes proper function. Slings can also provide compression on the urethra, further helping mitigate incontinence.

Find Urinary Incontinence Relief With Dr. Anand Shridharani

Incontinence after prostate surgery can be incredibly frustrating; working with a board-certified urologist can help.

Dr. Anand Shridharani is a board-certified doctor proudly serving Chattanooga and Knoxville, TN, as well as Northern Georgia and Huntsville, AL. Dr. Shridharani and his team strive to bring you the best value and care possible.

Contact Dr. Shridharani today at 423-778-4MEN (4636) to find incontinence relief.