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Many men don't like talking about it – but urinary incontinence affects millions of people. Whether it follows prostate surgery, is age-related, or has other causes: the good news is that there are numerous ways to treat it and to make everyday life easier. In this article, we show you what helps and when you should seek medical advice.
What Forms of Incontinence Exist in Men?
Not all urinary incontinence is the same. Knowing the exact form is essential for finding the right therapy:
Stress incontinence
- Loss of urine during physical exertion (coughing, laughing, sport)
- Common after prostate surgery
Urge incontinence
- Sudden, strong urge to urinate
- Common with an overactive bladder or neurological causes
Mixed incontinence
- A combination of stress and urge incontinence
Overflow incontinence
- The bladder does not empty completely, leading to constant dribbling
- Often occurs with an enlarged prostate
What Are the Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Men?
The reasons are varied – depending on age, pre-existing conditions, and lifestyle:
- Prostate surgery (e.g. TURP, radical prostatectomy)
- Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis
- A weak pelvic floor
- Age-related changes
- Chronic bladder infections or tumours
| Cause | Possible Form of Incontinence |
|---|---|
| Prostate surgery | Stress incontinence |
| Nerve damage | Urge or overflow incontinence |
| Age, weak pelvic floor | Mixed incontinence |
| Bladder infection/tumour | Urge incontinence |
What Treatment Options Are Available?
Depending on the cause and severity, there are different treatment approaches:
Pelvic floor training
- Guided by physiotherapists
- Strengthens the muscles for better bladder control
Medication
- For urge incontinence
- For nighttime urination
Surgical procedures
- Sling systems to support the urethral sphincter
- Artificial sphincter for severe cases
Neuromodulation
- Stimulation of the nerves that control the bladder (e.g. sacral nerve stimulation)
Behavioural therapy
- Bladder training, toilet schedules, fluid management
How Can You Manage Everyday Life with Incontinence?
Even if incontinence cannot be cured right away, there are many strategies to confidently manage everyday life:
- Incontinence products: discreet pads, pants, or catheters
- Drinking habits: drink regularly and mindfully, reduce intake in the evening
- Toilet training: regular schedules help prevent uncontrolled urges
- Clothing: dark, comfortable clothing can provide peace of mind
- Support: self-help groups or advice from specialists
When Should You See a Urologist?
Don't hesitate to seek medical advice if you:
- regularly lose urine involuntarily
- are afraid of "accidents" in public
- already use aids but are not satisfied with them
- feel restricted by your symptoms
A urologist will determine which form of incontinence is present and which therapy will help – discreetly and with a focus on solutions.
You Are Not Alone – and Help Is Available
Urinary incontinence is treatable – and nothing to be ashamed of. The sooner you take action, the better. Whether pelvic floor training, modern medication, or surgical help: together with your urologist, you will find the right path.
