Prostate Cancer and Incontinence: What to Expect and How to Manage It

Why does prostate cancer cause incontinence?

Prostate cancer itself doesn’t always cause incontinence, but the treatments for it often do. The prostate sits right below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, which means any surgery or radiation targeting the prostate can affect bladder control.

When the prostate is removed (a prostatectomy), the muscles that help control urine flow can be weakened. Radiation therapy can also irritate the bladder and urethra, leading to urgency and leakage. Some men experience short-term incontinence after treatment, while others deal with longer-term bladder control issues.

Best incontinence products for prostate cancer patients

Post-prostate surgery or radiation, the right incontinence products can make a huge difference in comfort and confidence. Absorbent guards or pads provide discreet protection for mild to moderate leaks, while protective underwear offers more security for those dealing with heavier leakage.

For nighttime protection, underpads and waterproof mattress protectors help keep bedding dry. If leaks are frequent, adult diapers may offer better absorbency. Many men also prefer reusable incontinence briefs, which look and feel like regular underwear but have a built-in pouch to insert absorbent bladder leak guards.

Types of incontinence after prostate cancer treatment

Not all urinary leakage is the same. Some men experience stress incontinence, meaning they leak when they cough, sneeze, or lift something heavy. This happens when the pelvic floor muscles and sphincter aren’t strong enough to keep urine in.

Others deal with urge incontinence, which feels like a sudden, intense need to urinate—even when the bladder isn’t full. Radiation therapy can increase this urgency by irritating the bladder lining. Mixed incontinence is also common, where both stress and urge incontinence happen together.

Some men develop overflow incontinence, where the bladder doesn’t empty completely, causing frequent dribbling. This is more common if the bladder muscles were affected during treatment.

Medical treatments for incontinence after prostate removal

If incontinence lasts longer than expected, there are medical treatments that can help. Prescription medications like anticholinergics can relax the bladder and reduce urgency. Some men benefit from Botox injections, which help calm overactive bladder muscles.

For more severe cases, surgical options are available. A male sling procedure can provide extra support to the urethra, reducing stress incontinence. In more extreme cases, an artificial urinary sphincter can be implanted to control urine flow.

How long does incontinence last after prostate surgery?

It varies. Some men regain bladder control within a few weeks, while others may take months. Incontinence usually improves over time as the pelvic floor muscles recover. Most men see significant improvement within six to twelve months.

For a small percentage, leakage can persist beyond a year. In those cases, medical treatments or additional interventions might be needed. The good news? With the right approach—pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes, and the right incontinence products—most men can regain confidence and manage symptoms effectively.

Pelvic floor exercises for post-prostate surgery incontinence

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles is one of the best ways to regain bladder control. Kegel exercises target the muscles responsible for stopping urine flow. To do them correctly, tighten the muscles you’d use to stop urination, hold for a few seconds, then release.

The key is consistency. Doing Kegels several times a day can help speed up recovery. Some men find biofeedback therapy useful—it involves using sensors to ensure they’re activating the right muscles.

How to manage urinary incontinence at home after prostate cancer

Lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference in bladder control. Scheduled bathroom breaks help prevent sudden leaks, while cutting back on caffeine and alcohol can reduce bladder irritation. Staying hydrated but avoiding large fluid intake before bed helps with nighttime leakage.

Wearing supportive incontinence products can also provide peace of mind while regaining bladder control. Keeping a small emergency kit with extra pads or underwear when out and about can make things easier.

When should you see a doctor about post-prostatectomy incontinence?

If incontinence continues beyond a year, or if it significantly impacts daily life, it’s time to talk to a doctor. Severe, persistent leakage or pain with urination could indicate another underlying issue. A urologist can assess the situation and recommend next steps, whether that’s further therapy, medication, or surgical options.

Regaining bladder control after prostate cancer treatment takes time, but with the right approach, most men can improve symptoms and return to an active, confident lifestyle.

San Pablo Commercial is a small, family-owned business focused on providing high-quality, budget-friendly incontinence solutions for people with prostate cancer and incontinence. Whether you need reliable disposable underpads, soft reusable briefs, or other absorbent products, we're here to help. Our mission is to simplify your daily routine, reduce cleanup, and give you more time for the things that matter.

At San Pablo Commercial, we're a family-run business dedicated to supporting seniors and caregivers by offering dependable, affordable incontinence supplies. From SPC disposable underpads to reusable underwear and sanitary pads, our range is designed for comfort and confidence. We understand the challenges of managing incontinence and strive to make it easier for you to stay clean, dry, and independent every day.