What is urinary incontinence?
Incontinence also known as bladder leakage, is defined as any involuntary leakage of urine.1 It can stop a man from living the active life he once lived and make him feel alone and isolated. For many men, leaking urine can mean embarrassment and feeling depressed.
You can’t say no to incontinence, but you can say “no more” to uncomfortable symptoms. Start exploring your treatment options here. Why wait?
Who has urinary incontinence?
The Urinary Process
A basic knowledge of the male urinary process helps in understanding the type and cause of urinary incontinence.
Types of Incontinence
There are different types of urinary incontinence, understanding what type you are experiencing will help you explore the best incontinence treatment option.
Living with incontinence
The psychological stress of living with urinary incontinence can take a toll.
Causes
One Symptom, Many Causes. Incontinence can be a consequence of other circumstances that may result in bladder leakage.
Incontinence and Prostate Cancer Surgery
Understand the relationship between prostate cancer treatment and stress urinary incontinence.
Seeking Treatment
The first step is discussing your condition with the right doctor. There are several healthcare professionals that can assist when seeking treatment.
The psychological stress of living with urinary incontinence can take a toll on a man and can have a significant negative impact on his quality of life. Understand your symptoms by taking this short quiz.
Non-surgical Treatments
Behavioural Modification
Changes to your lifestyle and diet, regular exercise and reducing stress may impact the urinary incontinence symptoms.
Intervention
Your GP or physiotherapist may encourage you to perform regular pelvic floor or Kegel exercises. These isolate and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and can help men regain bladder control.
External Devices
Until urinary control returns, using absorbent pads or special underwear can also help. Some men may use collection devices such as external or condom catheters or urine collection pouches to avoid accidental leakage.
Surgical Treatments
Injection Therapy
The procedure involves injecting a bulking agent (or substance) into the wall of your urethra.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS)
The artificial urinary sphincter or AUS, is designed to replicate the function of the external sphincter muscle to control urine. The AUS is suitable for men suffering from severe urinary incontinence.
Male Sling
Designed for men suffering from mild to moderate urinary incontinence, the male sling supports the urethra to better control urine.
Find a Specialist
Talk to a urologist about treatment options. Download a referral letter or contact a urologist near you.
Partner Perspective
Understand the burden of incontinence from a partner or loved one’s perspective.
Take the Quiz
Take our quiz to identify if you are experiencing urinary incontinence symptoms and help kick-start the conversation with your doctor.
Questions to Ask
Helpful hints on how to start the conversation with your GP or urologist, and other useful resources.
References
- Chapple C, Milsom I. Urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse epidemiology and pathophysiology. In: Wein AJ, Kavoussi LR, Novick AC, et al. (eds). Campbell-Walsh Urology. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Elsevier; 2012:1871-95.
- Continence Foundation of Australia Key Statistics https://www.continence.org.au/pages/key-statistics.html Accessed 18 February 2019
Results from case studies are not necessarily predictive of results in other cases. Results in other cases may vary. All images are the property of Boston Scientific. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Disclaimer: Individual symptoms, situations, circumstances and results may vary. This information is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider regarding your condition and appropriate medical treatment.
These Videos are meant for informational purposes only and may not be indicative of clinical outcome. The opinions, procedures and patient care policies expressed or depicted in the videos are those of the physician or practice nurse and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policies or recommendations of Boston Scientific Corporation or any of its employees.
This site is intended for Australian residents only. Please review the Boston Scientific Privacy Policy, for practices on the collection, storage, use and disclosure of your personal information.
CAUTION : Indications, contraindications, warnings and instructions for use can be found in the product labelling supplied with each device.