Male Stress Incontinence
Incontinence, or bladder leakage, is the medical term we use for loss of control of urine with leakage. This can occur in both men and women, and becomes more common as we age. This page focuses on the type of leakage of urine men face called stress urinary incontinence.
Stress incontinence is experienced by men as sudden loss of control of urine with bladder leakage.
Usually with movement - like standing up or picking up something heavy.
can occur as a side effect of some pelvic surgeries, like for instance after prostatectomy.
Leakage of urine can seriously impact a man’s quality of life. It may limit his ability to work, to do the activities he enjoys, sexual activity, and can lead to anxiety and depression.
Please come see us at Urology Nevada to discuss treatment options to improve your leakage (male stress incontinence)
Treatment Options
Pads or briefs (diapers) are a common method to help keep clothing clean and dry.
Pelvic floor physical therapy - This is a specialized form of physical therapy that specializes in training the pelvic muscles that help control leakage of urine. This is a good initial treatment option for mild incontinence.
External clamps - placed on the penis to keep pressure on the urethra.
Surgical Management - When conservative measures do not improve the leakage, we have two main surgical options that can dramatically improve the degree of incontinence. (SEE BELOW)
This video will provide a general overview of male stress incontinence (bladder leakage)
Leakage after Prostate Surgery
One of the more common side effects of removing the prostate (prostatectomy) for prostate cancer is bladder leakage (male stress urinary incontinence).
This video shows why bladder leakage occurs in men after prostatectomy.
Surgical Options
Male Sling
The male sling is a surgery that positions a synthetic mesh sling around the urethra. This is a good option for mild to moderate bladder leakage (stress urinary incontinence). It works by helping to lift and lengthen the urethra.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter
The artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is a great option for moderate to severe incontinence (leakage of urine). It has three components - The cuff - this is placed around the urethra. When not being used it holds constant pressure around the urethra to control leakage of urine
The pump - this is placed in the scrotum. When you need to urinate, you use the pump, which moves the fluid out of the cuff and allows you to urinate.
The cuff automatically re-inflates after you are done emptying your bladder.
The pressure regulating balloon - this is placed just behind the pubic bone. It holds constant pressure in the cuff.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter - How it works
