Stress Incontinence in Men
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is defined as the leakage of urine after sudden pressure to the abdomen or pelvic area. The physical pressure need not be extreme, either: urine leakage may occur after simply coughing or sneezing.
Here are some examples of stressors that may trigger urine leakage:
- Heavy lifting
- Coughing and sneezing
- Laughing
- Standing up from a seated position
- Exiting a vehicle
- Exercising
- Dancing
- Sexual intercourse
Note that you may not experience stress incontinence every time, and you are more prone to it if your bladder is full while engaging in physical activities.
Stress incontinence can be embarrassing and may cause you to avoid social settings or activities that can benefit your overall health such as exercising.
The good news is there are a variety of treatments that can effectively manage and treat your symptoms.
Why It Happens
Stress urinary incontinence is believed to be due to issues with urinary sphincter weakness or insufficient tissue support of the urethra, the duct through which urine exits the body.
This type of stress incontinence is common after prostate surgery – whether to treat an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) or prostate cancer. Surgery to remove the prostate gland – the main surgical treatment for prostate cancer – may damage the bladder sphincter, which is located below the prostate gland and surrounds the urethra.
How to Treat Stress Incontinence in Men
One treatment for stress urinary incontinence is a surgical procedure that involves implanting an artificial urinary sphincter that keeps the urethra closed when not urinating to help prevent urine from leaking.
Another treatment for stress incontinence in men is the surgical placement of a mesh sling. It is anchored to the pubic bones to support and apply slight pressure on the urethra to remain closed until it’s time to urinate. This surgical procedure is recommended for men with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence.
The best treatment for stress incontinence will depend on the severity of your condition. When you consult a urologist like Dr. Richard Natale, you will receive a treatment recommendation specific to your situation. Dr. Natale treats a broad range of urological conditions and is one of the most highly respected experts in the field of urology in Charlotte, North Carolina.
If you are experiencing any type of urinary incontinence, call at our Carolina Urology Partners at (704) 786-5131 or request an appointment now.
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