Jul 31, 2024
Life after prostate surgery can bring relief and hope, but it also brings its own set of challenges. One challenge, urinary incontinence, could affect many men post-surgery, impacting their daily routines and confidence.
It could feel daunting when it shows up in your recovery process. But it's a common side effect, and many men regain bladder control within about 12 months after surgery.1
Whether you're navigating this yourself or supporting a loved one, understanding the causes, symptoms, and practical management of urinary incontinence could help with recovery and quality of life.
Let’s look at the journey through post-prostate surgery incontinence, so you can take control of the process.
Understanding Incontinence After Prostate Surgery
Your bladder is a muscular organ, and with the help of two special muscles, the internal and external sphincters, you control your pee both consciously and unconsciously.2
Your internal sphincter sits at the base of your bladder, and it works without you having to think about it.2
On the other hand, the external sphincter is in the area between your scrotum and anus. It helps you consciously hold pee in.2
During prostate surgery or a prostatectomy, your doctor removes your prostate to help with conditions like cancer.3
Sometimes your doctor might also remove your internal sphincter, which could cause your body to rely on your external sphincter and pelvic floor for bladder control.4
If the surgery affects the nerves and muscles around your bladder, you might notice incontinence after your prostate operation.3
AIt’s a common side effect of prostate surgeries, and there are practical steps and strategies that could help you to take back control. 3
How Common Is Incontinence After Prostate Surgery?
You might be wondering just how common incontinence is after prostate surgery. Well, you’re not alone. Incontinence is one of the most common persistent urinary issues men face after surgery, affecting around 10-15% of men.5
And let’s not forget, after prostate surgery, 30-50% of men who started with normal urinary function might notice some incontinence.5
Recovery might look different for everyone; it may be based on modifiable factors like obesity and non-modifiable factors like age.1
The good news is that incontinence after prostate surgery is often temporary.1 Many men regain bladder control within the first few months, and 68–97% regain control within 12 months.1
What Types of Incontinence Can Occur After Prostate Surgery?
Many men notice stress incontinence after a prostatectomy (AKA surgery to remove the prostate) when they cough, laugh, sneeze, or lift something heavy.6, 7
It happens because the external urethral sphincter and pelvic floor muscles may not be able to handle sudden increases in pressure in your stomach from these actions.7,8
Urge Incontinence or Overactive Bladder
Urge incontinence after a prostatectomy may happen because of a pelvic nerve injury from prostate surgery, causing your bladder muscles to become overactive.4
If you notice a sudden, strong need to use the restroom, sometimes leaking or dribbling before you can get there, it may be urge incontinence.6
Mixed Incontinence
A combination of both stress and urge incontinence symptoms.6
Post-Micturition Dribble (PMD)
If you notice a few drops of pee leaking after you finish using the bathroom, it may be PMD.9
This happens when a small amount of urine is left in your urethra, and your pelvic floor muscles may not be strong enough to fully push it out while you’re peeing.9
If you had radiation therapy instead of surgery, you could still experience some bladder leaks.10 It may irritate your bladder or affect the sphincter muscles that help you pee.10
But you don’t have to worry, there are everyday tips in this article that may help regardless of which prostate treatment you had.10
Why Some Men Recover Faster
Recovery from prostate surgery bladder leaks could look different for everyone, but a few influential factors include: 1
Age
The younger you are, the quicker your bladder control may return after surgery.7 It could be because younger men tend to have stronger pelvic floor muscles and their nerves heal quicker.7
Still pelvic floor exercises could help you regain control over time.4
Overall Health at The Time of Surgery
Having urinary symptoms like urgency or nocturia before surgery may delay your recovery.1 A high BMI or being overweight might also affect how fast you regain control after surgery.7
Type of Surgical Technique
The technique your doctor uses during your prostate surgery may affect how long your recovery takes.7
Speaking with your doctor could help you better understand what recovery might look like for you.
Pre-surgical Pelvic Floor Strength
Men who begin pelvic floor exercises before surgery may notice a quicker recovery time.11
How Long Does Incontinence Last After Prostate Surgery?
Some men might see improvement within 3 to 6 months, while for others, recovery may take 6 to 12 months.6,10
It is often a gradual process, and there are everyday strategies, like pelvic floor exercises, that could support your bladder control and recovery over time.4,6
If you are still experiencing post prostatectomy incontinence after a year, speaking with a specialist could help you better understand the options available to you.6
Managing Urinary Incontinence After Prostate Surgery
Managing urinary incontinence after prostate surgery could be doable with both medical and everyday habits. Let’s look at some ways.
Non-Surgical Management
There are several non-surgical ways that could help you with incontinence after prostate removal.
They include:
Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels)
As mentioned earlier, Kegels are key.1 These exercises could help strengthen your pelvic floor, giving your external sphincter the extra support it needs. 4
You also don’t have to worry about Kegels affecting your schedule.
You could make it a regular part of your routine and do them while watching TV, driving, or even when you’re sitting at your desk.
Your doctor or continence nurse might even recommend starting pelvic floor exercise before surgery to help your recovery journey.4
To help here is a helpful step by step guide:
Identify your pelvic floor muscles by imagining you are stopping gas from passing.12
Gently squeeze the muscles and hold for about three seconds, then relax for the same.12
Repeat this in short sets each day, aiming for around 10 contractions.12
Over time, you could gradually increase how long you hold the squeeze.13 If three seconds feels comfortable today, you may slowly build up to five or even 10 seconds.13
It might feel tricky finding the right muscles at first. If you feel struck, a pelvic floor physiotherapist could help guide you through.
Bladder Training
Bladder training after your prostate surgery could help reduce the sudden urges that come with male incontinence.14
It works by gradually increasing the time between your bathroom visits, helping your bladder learn to hold more pee.15
Here’s how to get started:
Start by going to the bathroom every hour.14
Slowly increase the interval by 15 minutes each week as you feel ready, until you reach about 3 hours between visits.14
Use reminders on your phone or link bathroom trips to activities you already do to build a habit.
Consistency is key to seeing improvements in your urinary incontinence journey. Remember, while you are training your bladder, accidents may happen, and you can still use absorbent guards or shields.
Lifestyle and Dietary Changes
Spread Hydration Out
It’s a bit of a catch 22. Too much fluid may overwhelm your bladder, while too little could concentrate your pee and irritate it, leading to more urges.15
Drinking enough fluid throughout the day helps you stay hydrated.15
But, at night, you may want to cut down on fluids about a few hours before bedtime to help with multiple nighttime bathroom trips.15,16
Avoid Bladder Irritants
Alcohol, coffee, or carbonated beverages especially late in the day could irritate your bladder causing more urges and bathroom visits.14,17
You could switch them out with less irritating options such as milk, water, or herbal teas.14
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Extra weight could put excess pressure on your bladder and pelvic floor causing bladder leaks.18
Maintaining a healthy weight not only helps keep the pressure off your bladder, but could help with your recovery journey.7,18
Quitting Smoking
Quitting smoking may help both your recovery timeline and bladder control.19
Smoking may cause a chronic cough, which could put extra pressure on your pelvic floor over time, leading to stress leaks.20
Avoid Heavy Lifting
While you recover, heavy lifting might increase the pressure in your stomach, causing stress leaks.8
If you absolutely have to lift something, and there’s nobody available to help, doing a Kegel before and during the lift could help.12
Using Incontinence Products During Recovery
Incontinence products could help you stay active, keep up with work, and maintain your social life while your bladder control returns.
Using them is not a sign of defeat; it's a practical, confident choice that supports your recovery and protects your mental well-being along the way.
Some men's and caregivers' incontinence products you could consider during your recovery include:
Male incontinence guards: Offer higher absorbency with a low-profile fit. Suitable for moderate leaks while you work with your doctor.
Male incontinence shields: Slim, shaped, and discreet for light leaks. Ideal for men with mild stress incontinence during the later stages of recovery.
Male incontinence underwear: Offers high absorbency with the comfort and appearance of regular underwear. Ideal for heavy or unpredictable leaks during the first days after surgery.
Medications for Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence
Sometimes even the most determined among us need a little extra help.
There are some medications available that could help relax your bladder by blocking nerve signals.1 Your doctor might recommend using them together with other strategies, such as bladder training.1
If you need extra help, talk to your doctor about any therapies, strategies, or medications you can try before starting them. They can help determine the right treatment based on your specific situation.
Medications for Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence
Sometimes even the most determined among us need a little extra help.
There are some medications available that could help relax your bladder by blocking nerve signals.1 Your doctor might recommend using them together with other strategies, such as bladder training.1
If you need extra help, talk to your doctor about any therapies, strategies, or medications you can try before starting them. They can help determine the right treatment based on your specific situation.
Surgical Treatments for Persistent Incontinence
If you still notice bladder leaks after non-surgical management, your doctor may recommend surgical options, usually around 12 months after your surgery.1, 21
The best option for you depends on factors such as:
- How severe your symptoms are1
- Your preferences1
- Whether you’ve had radiation therapy1
- Your medical history21
Some of these options include:
Male Sling Surgery
Male sling surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that could help with mild to moderate stress incontinence.22
During the surgery, your doctor places a small supportive tape under your urethra to help with compression and support.22
You will be asleep during the procedure, and depending on your hospital, you may have to stay overnight.22
Adjustable Balloon Devices
This is a minimally invasive procedure your doctor might recommend to help with mild to moderate urinary incontinence after a prostatectomy. 21
During the procedure, your doctor places two small fluid-filled balloons on either side of your bladder neck.
These balloons help your urethra resist the pressure that could be causing your leaks.21 One advantage of this method is that your doctor could adjust the balloons over time without the need for further surgery.21
Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS)
AUS is the gold standard for moderate-to-severe incontinence.21
It involves your doctor placing a mechanical device while you’re asleep to help you control how you pee.21,23
The device has three parts: a cuff that wraps around your urethra, a pressure-regulating balloon in your lower abdomen, and a small pump in your scrotum.21,23
Unlike others, you may need a few weeks to heal before your doctor activates the device.21
Once it's switched on, you just need to squeeze the pump in your scrotum during bathroom breaks, deflating the cuff to let pee flow.21
After you’re done, the cuff automatically re-inflates on its own, restoring your bladder control.21
Can You Prevent Incontinence After Prostate Surgery?
While not completely avoidable, you may be able to support your recovery with simple proactive steps such as:
- Starting pelvic floor exercises before surgery.7
- Asking your doctor about nerve-sparing options.7
- Maintaining a healthy weight.7
- Quitting smoking.7
- Understanding what to expect and preparing for it.
If you’re unsure how to start pelvic floor exercises, speaking with your urologist may help. Many clinics now offer pelvic floor therapy before prostate surgery.
The Emotional Impact of Post-Surgical Incontinence
It is completely normal to feel frustrated, embarrassed, or anxious about bladder leakage after prostate removal.
These feelings do not make you any less strong. Incontinence could affect any confidence, relationships, social life, and work. Some days may even feel harder than others, and that is okay.
Having a support system around you, whether a partner, a trusted friend, or an online forum of men who have been through the same experience, could make even the toughest days a little easier.
If you notice persisting low moods or anxiety during your recovery, it may be worth speaking to your doctor. They could point you toward the right support.
It might be daunting but with TENA resources on talking about incontinence it might feel easier to have a conversation about how you feel.
FAQ
What Causes Urinary Incontinence After Prostate Surgery?
During a prostatectomy, your doctor may also remove your internal sphincter along with the prostate, leaving your external sphincter and pelvic floor to help control your bladder.4
If your pelvic floor muscles are weak or the surgery affects nearby nerves, you might notice some bladder leaks.4
Most men do recover over time, and there are several ways to help you feel confident and in control while you do.1,5
What Are the Best Exercises for Bladder Control After Prostate Surgery?
Pelvic floor exercises after prostate surgery could be helpful for your bladder control.3 They help strengthen your muscles, giving your external sphincter extra support so you may feel more in control when you pee.4
They’re simple and you can do them anywhere, even while watching TV.
You could also start them before surgery to support your recovery. If you’re unsure how to start, a physiotherapist can help guide you.
Can Incontinence After Prostate Surgery Be Permanent?
While majority of men usually experience temporary incontinence for 12 months, few might notice persisting incontinence.1,24
The good news is your doctors could still help you find ways to help you feel more confident and in control both with surgical and non-surgical options.1,24
What Happens If the Prostate Is Removed?
Bladder leaks and sexual changes are common after surgery, but they are manageable with your doctor's help.1,25
After your doctor removes your prostate, you might notice not being able to ejaculate semen anymore, but will still be able to achieve an orgasm, albeit a dry one.25
Also, because your doctor may remove your internal sphincter in some cases, you might notice bladder leaks, if your pelvic floor muscles are weak.4
Can Prostate Surgery Affect Bowel Movements?
Yes, because your doctor puts you to sleep during the procedure, you might notice temporary constipation afterward.26
Your doctor may suggest medications to help relieve it.27 While they start working, it’s important to avoid straining.27
Instead, you could try walking around, staying hydrated, and eating high-fiber meals.26,27
If constipation continues or becomes uncomfortable, let your doctor know. They may be able to help.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Prostate Surgery?
Your recovery timeline depends on the type of surgery you had.28 Some procedures may take 6 to 8 weeks to recover from physically, while others may take less time.28
Bladder control on the other hand tends to take a little longer. Some men notice improvement around 3 to 6 months, and most men may regain full control by 12 months. 1,6
If you are unsure about when to return to your usual activities, your doctor is the best person to ask.
What Products Can Help with Incontinence After Prostate Surgery?
Incontinence products after prostate surgery could help you feel more comfortable while recovering.
They are designed to absorb leaks discreetly, making it easier to continue daily activities, exercise, work, and social outings during your recovery.
Different products suit different levels of leakage. Guards are often helpful for moderate leaks, while shields offer more absorbency for light dribbling.
If you experience heavier or less predictable leakage, incontinence underwear may offer more coverage and protection.
Should I Do Pelvic Floor Exercises Before Prostate Surgery?
Yes, starting pelvic floor exercises before your surgery could make a difference in your recovery process.11 Consider asking your urologist about pelvic floor therapy preparation before your procedure.
References
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2. Wu EH, De Cicco FL. Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Male Genitourinary Tract [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562291/
3. Cleveland Clinic. ‘Incontinence after prostate surgery’. 2024. Accessed 18 July 2024. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/incontinence-after-prostate-surgery
4. Castellan P, Ferretti S, Litterio G, Marchioni M, Schips L. Management of Urinary Incontinence Following Radical Prostatectomy: Challenges and Solutions. Therapeutics and clinical risk management [Internet]. 2023 Jan 1; Volume 19:43–56. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9851058/
5. John Hopkins Medicine. ‘Urinary dysfunction after prostate cancer treatment’. 2024. Accessed 18 July 2024. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/urinary-dysfunction-after-prostate-cancer-treatment
6. Incontinence after Prostate Treatment What You Should Know [Internet]. [cited 2025 Sep 8]. Available from: https://www.urologyhealth.org/documents/Product-Store/English/ProstateHealth-IncontinenceAfterProstateTreatment-FS-2024-English.pdf
7. Barakat B, Hadaschik B, Al-Nader M, Schakaki S. Factors Contributing to Early Recovery of Urinary Continence Following Radical Prostatectomy: A Narrative Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2024 Nov 11;13(22):6780.
8. WebMD Editorial Contributor. Stress Incontinence [Internet]. WebMD. WebMD; 2024. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/urinary-incontinence-oab/stress
9. Yang DY, Lee WK. A current perspective on post-micturition dribble in males. Investigative and Clinical Urology [Internet]. 2019 May 1 [cited 2020 Dec 4];60(3):142–7. Available from: https://icurology.org/DOIx.php?id=10.4111/icu.2019.60.3.142
10. Geng C. The link between prostate cancer and urinary incontinence [Internet]. Medicalnewstoday.com. Medical News Today; 2025 [cited 2026 May 17]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/prostate-cancer-and-urinary-incontinence#how-common-is-it
11. Milios JE, Ackland TR, Green DJ. Pelvic floor muscle training in radical prostatectomy: a randomized controlled trial of the impacts on pelvic floor muscle function and urinary incontinence. BMC Urology. 2019 Nov 15;19(1).
12. Mayo clinic. Kegel exercises for men: Understand the benefits [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2024. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/kegel-exercises-for-men/art-20045074
13. Male Pelvic Floor Exercises [Internet]. University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. 2022. Available from: https://www.uhsussex.nhs.uk/resources/male-pelvic-floor-exercises/
14. Healthline. ‘What to Know About Overactive Bladder After Surgery’. 2024. Accessed 18 July 2024. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/overactive-bladder/overactive-bladder-after-surgery
15. Mayo Clinic. Bladder control: Lifestyle strategies ease problems [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2025. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-incontinence/in-depth/bladder-control-problem/art-20046597
16. Anthony K. Drinking Water Before Bed [Internet]. Healthline. Healthline Media; 2023. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/drinking-water-before-bed
17. WebMD Editorial Contributors. Why Do I Pee So Much at Night? [Internet]. WebMD. 2025. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/urinary-incontinence-oab/nocturia-pee-night
18. Lillis C. Can obesity cause urinary incontinence? [Internet]. Medicalnewstoday.com. Medical News Today; 2024. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-obesity-cause-incontinence
19. Zhang C, Harper A, Imm KR, Grubb III RL, Kim EH, Colditz GA, et al. Impact of Age, Marital Status, Smoking, and Alcohol Consumption on Urinary and Sexual Function in Prostate Cancer Patients Treated with Radical Prostatectomy: A Prospective Cohort Study. Urology [Internet]. 2026 Jan [cited 2026 May 17]; 207:155–61. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12823265/
20. Poenaru MO, Ples L, Toma CV, Augustin FE, Sima RM, Amza M, et al. Conservative Treatment in Stress Urinary Incontinence—Narrative Literature Review. Life [Internet]. 2026 Jan 2;16(1):69. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/16/1/69
21. Padmanabhan P, Kovacevic N. Surgical Management of Post Prostatectomy Incontinence. Prostate International [Internet]. 2024 Apr 1 [cited 2024 Oct 14]; Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11255890/
22. Amanda, Suarez OA, McCammon KA. AdVance male sling. Translational Andrology and Urology. 2017 Aug 1;6(4):674–81.
23. Information about your procedure from The British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) What does this procedure involve? [Internet]. Available from: https://www.baus.org.uk/_userfiles/pages/files/Patients/Leaflets/AUS%20male.pdf
24. Cancer Research UK. Bladder problems after treatment for prostate cancer | Cancer Research UK [Internet]. www.cancerresearchuk.org. 2022. Available from: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/prostate-cancer/practical-emotional-support/bladder-problems
25. Villines Z. Is it possible to have pleasurable sex without a prostate? [Internet]. Medicalnewstoday.com. Medical News Today; 2024 [cited 2026 May 18]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-you-climax-after-prostate-removal
26. McDermott A. Constipation After Surgery: What to Expect [Internet]. Healthline. 2020. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/constipation-after-surgery
27. Recovering after Robot Assisted Radical Prostatectomy surgery [Internet]. NHS Foundation Trust: Royal Madsen; Available from: https://patientinfolibrary.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/document/download/1032
28. Geng C. What to expect during prostate cancer surgery recovery [Internet]. Medicalnewstoday.com. Medical News Today; 2025 [cited 2026 May 18]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/prostate-cancer-surgery-recovery
