ABOUT URINARY INCONTINENCE

Urinary incontinence is a term that describes any accidental or involuntary loss of urine from the bladder. It can be caused by many different medical conditions such as an enlarged prostate, prostate cancer, obstruction from tumour, or neurological disorders. It can also be the result of age or trauma.

Urinary incontinence is a common and often embarrassing problem. Severity ranges from occasionally leaking urine (when you cough or sneeze) to having a strong urge to urinate so suddenly that you don't get to a toilet in time.       

There are four main 'types' of incontinence:

  • Urge incontinence due to an overactive bladder

  • Stress incontinence due to poor closure of the bladder

  • Overflow incontinence due to either poor bladder contraction or blockage of the urethra

  • Functional incontinence due to medications or health problems making it difficult to reach the bathroom

Regardless of the type of urinary incontinence, patients find that it compromises their social life, ability to work, or to enjoy simple, everyday activities with confidence.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

There are several treatments available to men who suffer from incontinence ranging from physiotherapy to surgical solutions, all aiming to ensure that patients regain their sense of dignity and quality of life. 

At your initial consultation we will discuss your current health status and history and to determine the best treatment for your individual needs. Contact us to discuss your needs or to schedule an appointment. 

EXERCISES 

The muscles within the pelvic floor play an important role in managing incontinence. When pelvic floor muscles are weak or tight you will have trouble emptying your bladder normally.

Learning to exercise these muscles can be difficult so we have partnered with professional physiotherapists who specialise in pelvic floor muscle techniques. .

 

ABSORBENT PRODUCTS

This includes protective underwear, briefs, diapers, and adult diapers.

These products help to assist men in the management of incontinence. They are easily assessable from pharmacies and supermarkets. The advantage is they can be discreet however, disadvantages are that they are bulky and can leak at times. They can also result in odours and cause skin irritation for people who suffer moderate to heavy urinary incontinence.

COLLECTING SYSTEMS 

A collecting system allows the urine to be directed into a collection bag from a sheath that is worn on the penis. They come in different sizes for an individual fit.

They are discreet, allow the skin to stay dry and also can be worn day or night. It does need to be correctly fitted by a healthcare professional. 

 

INDWELLING CATHETERS

Also known as Foleys, an indwelling catheter is usually connected to a bag that can be attached to your leg or over the side of the bed. Indwelling catheters must be changed on a regular basis by a healthcare professional. Advantages of an indwelling catheter is that the urine gets funneled into the bag and keeps urine away from the skin. Indwelling catheters are regularly used within the hospital setting after surgery, to manage acute urinary symptoms. The disadvantage of an indwelling catheter is the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). 

SURGERY

Surgery is an option for stress or overflow incontinence. There are surgical options for mild to moderate incontinence, and heavy incontinence.

These include a male 'sling', a device surgically inserted to support the bladder and urethra. There is also an "artificial urinary sphincter" which is a device designed to act like your own natural urethral sphincter. It controls the exit of urine from your bladder to your urethra using a pump located in the scrotum.

 

WE THINK ABOUT PATIENT CARE DIFFERENTLY. 

We realise that for many men, talking about problems related to 'down there' is not easy. We get it. We understand the broader emotional issues that often accompany problems with the penis or urogenital system. We aim to provide outstanding support as we help resolve your medical condition. 

At your initial consultation we will discuss your current health status and history and to determine the best treatment for your individual needs. Contact us to discuss your needs or to schedule an appointment.