Bladder control after prostate surgery

Some men experience leaking urine (wee) after prostate surgeries such as:

• prostatectomy (where the prostate gland is removed) or
• ‘transurethral resection of the prostate’ (TURP) (where the part of the prostate tissue that’s blocking the flow of urine (wee) from the bladder is removed).

Leaking urine (wee), also called incontinence, is a common part of recovery and usually improves over time.

Why leaking urine can happen after surgery

• Surgery may affect the muscles that help control urine (wee) flow, including the bladder neck sphincter (bladder opening muscle)
• These muscles play a key role in holding and releasing urine (wee).

Most men regain bladder control within 6 to 12 months. Support from health professionals can help during this time.

What you can do to support recovery

• daily pelvic floor exercises can make the pelvic floor muscles stronger
• drink enough fluids – your doctor can tell you how much is right for you is. Drink less caffeine (eg coffee, cola), alcohol and fizzy drinks if they are making symptoms worse
• eat a balanced diet with plenty of fibre from fruits, vegetables and whole grains which support bowel health and reduce strain on the pelvic floor
• practice good toilet habits by only going to the toilet when your bladder feels full, and not ‘just in case’. After surgery, you may not feel this sensation right away, but it will return over time. Practicing ‘holding on’ can help your bladder recover.

Treatment options for incontinence after prostate surgery

A nurse continence specialist, pelvic health physiotherapist or GP (doctor) can help to find the cause of incontinence and offer treatment.

Depending on the cause, treatment options may include:

• bladder training
• pelvic floor exercisess for men
• medicines for continence health.

If you’ve noticed changes in your bladder control health or have questions about your prostate health, call the National Continence Helpline (1800 33 00 66) to talk to a nurse continence specialist. They can answer any questions you have and may suggest you see a GP (doctor) or pelvic health physiotherapist.

With the right support, you can take control of your health and continue to do the things you enjoy.

This content has been reviewed by sub­ject mat­ter experts in line with Continence Health Australia’s established process. Read about our clinical content review protocol.