18 June 2025

In Australia, approximately 1 in 10 men experience some form of urinary incontinence in their lifetime. For men who undergo treatment for prostate cancer, this is a common side effect.  

However, it’s essential to know that with the right approach, incontinence can be managed, and quality of life can be significantly improved. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, treatment options, and strategies for managing urinary incontinence post-prostate cancer treatment. 

Why do prostate cancer treatments affect urinary and bowel control? 

The prostate gland plays a critical role in urinary control. It’s located just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside. Prostate cancer treatments—such as surgery and radiation therapy—can damage the prostate, the bladder sphincter, or the muscles and nerves that control continence. 

While many men experience temporary incontinence that improves over time (typically within one to six months), some may experience long-lasting or even permanent effects. Understanding these causes can help men and their healthcare providers develop the best approach to manage incontinence. 

Types of Urinary Incontinence 

There are several different types of urinary incontinence, and each requires specific management strategies: 

  • Stress Incontinence: Leakage occurs during activities that pressure the bladder, such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting. 
  • Urge Incontinence: A sudden and strong urge to urinate that can lead to leakage before reaching the toilet. 
  • Mixed Incontinence: A combination of both stress and urge incontinence. 
  • Overflow Incontinence: Inability to empty the bladder, leading to frequent dribbling of urine. 

Each type of incontinence has its underlying cause and understanding which type you’re experiencing is key to determining the most effective treatment. 

Managing urinary incontinence: available options 

Continence aids: For many men, continence aids provide an easy and effective solution for managing incontinence.  

Here are some common options: 

  • Absorbent Pads: Specifically designed for male anatomy, these pads are available in various absorbency levels and can be discreetly worn during daily activities. TENA is one of the leading brands that offers a range of products tailored to male incontinence. 
  • Urinary Sheaths: These are condom-like catheters that fit over the penis and drain urine into a discreet leg bag. 
  • Penile Clamps: These clamps gently close the urethra, preventing urine leakage. However, they should only be used temporarily, as prolonged use can cause discomfort. 

Pelvic floor exercises:  
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can significantly improve bladder control. These muscles support the bladder, bowel, and rectum, and when they’re weakened, especially after prostate cancer treatments, they can contribute to incontinence. Pelvic floor exercises (PFEs) can help men regain control and prevent further issues. Learning the correct technique is essential for the best results, and a continence nurse or pelvic physiotherapist can provide guidance. 

PCFA’s Survivorship Toolkit offers helpful resources for men undergoing rehabilitation, including exercises for pelvic floor strength. 

Surgical interventions:  
In more severe cases of incontinence, surgical options may be necessary: 

  • Artificial Urinary Sphincter: This device mimics the natural urinary sphincter. A small cuff is placed around the urethra, gently squeezing it shut. The cuff can be deflated to allow urination. This option has a high success rate in restoring continence for men with severe stress incontinence. 
  • Male Sling Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that supports the urethra and prevents leakage. This option is generally suitable for men with mild to moderate incontinence. 

Lifestyle changes:  
In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in managing incontinence: 

  • Bladder Training: Establishing a regular urination schedule can help retrain the bladder and reduce urgency. 
  • Dietary Adjustments: Reducing caffeine and alcohol can help minimise bladder irritation. 
  • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce bladder and pelvic floor pressure. 
  • Physical Activity: Engaging in low-impact exercises like walking or swimming can strengthen pelvic floor muscles and improve overall health. 

Support and resources for men in Australia 

If you’re struggling with urinary incontinence after treatment, you’re not alone. There are many resources available to help men manage the condition: 

  • PCFA Telenursing Service: Call 1800 22 00 99 to speak with a Prostate Cancer Specialist Telenurse. 
  • Continence Health Australia: This free service offers advice on continence management and provides confidential support: 1800 33 00 66 
  • Pelvic physiotherapists: These experts specialise in pelvic floor rehabilitation and can help guide you through exercises to regain control.  

Additionally, financial support may be available for men who need continence products. The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) and state-based schemes may offer assistance for those with severe or permanent incontinence. 

While urinary incontinence can be an ongoing challenge for some men after prostate cancer treatment, it is a highly manageable condition. With the right strategies, many men can regain bladder control and improve their quality of life. 

If you're dealing with urinary incontinence, don’t hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals who specialise in this area.  

Remember, support is available. You're not alone in your journey.