Understanding Prostate Incontinence
The Male Prostate Gland serves an essential role in male reproduction, but no direct role in the male urinary process. However, due to its location behind the bladder, the prostate can interfere with the urinary process if it becomes infected or enlarged.
Types of Prostate Disorders
Prostatitis:
An infection or inflammation of the prostate gland that can be treated through lifestyle or dietary changes, or with antibiotics.
Benign Prostate Enlargement:
A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. As men age the prostate gradually enlarges and may push against the urethra causing it to narrow. Urination may become more difficult as the bladder muscle works harder to empty the bladder. Other symptoms may include more frequent urination, difficulty when urinating, or the feeling of not being able to completely empty the bladder. Treatment in these cases depends on the degree of symptoms, ranging from no action to the extreme of removal of part or the entire prostate.
Prostate Cancer:
These symptoms are similar to those for benign prostate enlargement and may also include lower back pain, blood in the urine, weight loss, or pain in the kidneys. Treatment of prostate cancer will vary depending on the circumstances of each case. If the cancer has not spread beyond the prostate gland, your doctor may choose to wait and see how the spread progresses. Other options may include radiation therapy for the affected area or surgery to remove part or the entire prostate.
Prostate Surgery & Incontinence
The two most common surgical procedures for prostrate disorders as follows.
Transurethral Resection (TURP):
This is the most common surgical procedure for benign prostate enlargement. During the procedure a surgical instrument called a resectoscope is inserted through the penis into the urethra, the tube that carries urine form the bladder to the outside of the body. The narrowing tissue is trimmed away. No incision is made, but a catheter is left in place for several days until the patient goes home.
Radical Prostatectomy:
This is the complete removal of the prostate gland. Since the urethra passes through the prostrate, it must also be removed. Every attempt is made to minimize the damage to the connection between the bladder and urethra during its reconstruction. An internal catheter is left in the bladder for approximately two weeks to allow the new connection between the bladder and urethra to heal properly.
Most men experience a loss of bladder control for several days to several weeks immediately following a TURP. In most cases there will be some loss of bladder control for at least four to six weeks following the procedure. The occurrence of incontinence is generally greater following a complete removal of the prostate (the radical prostatectomy). While most men will regain most or total control of the bladder, there will be some men who will experience a permanent problem with leakage.
Improving Bladder Control After Surgery
- Avoid Caffeinated Beverages since caffeine can irritate the bladder.
- Perform pelvic floor muscle exercises to restore muscle condition.
- Drink Plenty of Water because it dilutes the urine and lessens irritation to the bladder.
- Schedule times to urinate every 2 to 3 hours.
- Squeeze the control muscle before performing activities like bending, squatting, getting out of a chair or bed, which may initiate voiding.
- Don't Smoke since smoke is an irritant to the bladder and may lead to coughing which places stress on the bladder.
- Consult your physician for surgical procedures, which may improve bladder control after prostate surgery.
Incontinence Products Designed Just for Men
A wide range of products designed to help men manage incontinence and lead an active life are available. The best product for you depends on your specific needs. Amount and frequency of output, individual shape and size, and the level of activity are all factors to consider when trying to find the most effective product.
- Drip Collectors are designed specifically for men who need light protection. They fit over the penis and attach to your own underwear with an adhesive strip.
- Guards are designed for men needing light to moderate protection. Once unfolded, they are cup shaped and fit inside your own underwear with an adhesive strip.
- Pad and Pant Systems are designed to provide light to moderate protection with the comfort of regular briefs and absorbent pads.
- External Catheters ("Condom style") are designed for men who have uncontrolled or unexpected leakage. These can be used with a leg drainage bag or night drainage bag for heavy protection.