Male Incontinence - Frequently Asked Questions

Have some basic questions about male incontinence or Depend® incontinence products for men? We've divided common questions from men like you into five categories. Each is filled with answers you need.

  1. Men's Incontinence Basics

    • Q What are the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

      A

      Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain or cramping and changes in bowel function, including bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation and fecal incontinence. If you have these symptoms and suspect you may have IBS, please speak to your doctor or medical provider.

       

    • Q What's irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and what causes it?

      A

      Nearly one in five American adults have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is characterized by abdominal pain or cramping, and changes in bowel function, including bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation.

      It's not known exactly what causes irritable bowel syndrome. If you have IBS, the muscles that line your intestines may cause stronger and longer-lasting contractions than normal, forcing food through your intestines quicker, causing gas, bloating and diarrhea. Conversely, food passage slows and stools become hard and dry. Abnormalities in your nervous system or colon may also play a role, causing you to experience greater than normal discomfort when your abdomen stretches from gas.

      For many people, IBS causes symptoms that are mild, which do not interfere with daily activities. For others, IBS may severely compromise their quality of life. Finding the right incontinence product can go a long way in boosting his or her confidence.

       

    • Q What is urinary incontinence?

      A

      Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. This means that you can't always control when you need to urinate. The good news is, it can be managed or even eliminated altogether.

       

    • Q How common is urinary incontinence?

      A

      Millions of adults in the United States have urinary incontinence or a milder form, sometimes called bladder weakness or overactive bladder (OAB), depending on the symptoms and causes. If you or a loved one is affected by urinary incontinence, you should know that you are not alone. Approximately 25 million people nationwide are affected.

      It's most common in people over 50 years old. But it can also affect younger people, especially women who have given birth. Both men and women can have urinary incontinence.

      Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have this problem. If you hide your incontinence, you risk getting rashes, sores, skin infections and urinary tract infections. Also, you may find yourself avoiding friends and family because of fear and embarrassment.

       

    • Q What causes urinary incontinence?

      A

      There are many causes of urinary incontinence. Some include weak bladder muscles, an enlarged prostate, stroke, complications from surgery, radiation treatment, or chronic diseases like diabetes, multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson's disease. Other diseases that affect the bladder nerves or spinal cord could also cause urinary incontinence.

       

    • Q How does my bladder work?

      A

      Your body stores urine in the bladder. During urination, muscles in the bladder tighten to move urine into the urethra - a tube below the bladder. At the same time, the muscles around the urethra relax and let the urine pass. Incontinence occurs if the urine leaves the bladder and urethra without warming.

       

    • Q What are the different kinds of incontinence with the symptoms and potential causes?

      A
      Stress Incontinence
      • Loss of urine when you place pressure or 'stress' on your bladder
      • Leakage when you sneeze, cough, laugh, exercise, or lift heavy items
      • Causes may include: physical changes from being overweight or the removal of the prostate gland
      Urge Incontinence
      • Sudden, intense urge to urinate - often followed by involuntary loss of urine
      • Sudden or frequent emptying of bladder; getting up two or more times per night to urinate
      • Causes may include: bladder or urinary tract infections, bladder irritants, stroke, neurological diseases such as Parkinson's or Multiple Sclerosis
      Overflow Incontinence
      • Frequent or constant dribble of urine
      • Feeling your bladder is never empty; sometimes only a weak stream of urine
      • Causes may include: damaged bladder, blocked urethra, diabetes
      Functional Incontinence
      • Inability to reach bathroom in time
      • Physical or psychological impairment where you cannot reach the bathroom in time
      • Causes may include: mobility limitations, pain with movement, medications, arthritis

      Want to learn more? Download a summary sheet with more symptoms and causes.

       

    • Q What health and lifestyle habits can help reduce the likelihood of incontinence?

      A
      There are several simple things you can do to help maintain bladder and urinary health, including:
      • Urinate regularly and don't delay having bowel movements.

         

      • Monitor your fluid intake

        Drink at least six to seven 8 oz glasses of water a day to keep your bladder healthy. When you drink less water, your urine is more concentrated and may irritate the lining of the urethra and bladder.

      • Pay attention to your diet

        Lot of things-including caffeine, alcohol, acidic foods (like tomatoes and citrus fruits) and drinks, chocolate, artificial sweeteners, hot spices and carbonated drinks-can irritate your bladder. Take time to learn what foods and drinks trigger your leakage and then remove them from your diet.

      • Consider the weight factor

        A five to 10% weight loss can help relieve the added pressure excess weight puts on your bladder and surrounding muscles and aid in controlling your incontinence.

      • Practice pelvic floor muscles exercises, also known as Kegels, to strengthen the muscles that help control urination.
       

    • Q What's a "bathroom journal" and why should I keep one?

      A

      In many cases, you can train your bladder to empty at the appropriate time. One key re-training tool is a bathroom journal (also called a toileting diary). This journal answers a lot of questions about your bladder health and patterns and creates a baseline picture of your bladder control that you can share with your doctor.

      Want to learn more? Download a sample bathroom journal to see what's involved in keeping one.

       

    • Q I think I might have urinary incontinence. How do I talk to my doctor about urinary incontinence?

      A

      First of all, educate yourself. Learn how your body works (especially your urinary system) and what's normal. That way you can give your doctor better information.

      One of the best ways to do this is to a keep a bathroom journal. At least a few days before your appointment, begin keeping track of information such as how much fluid you drink and when you drink them, how many trips you take to the bathroom to urinate, when you experience incontinence and under what circumstances (exercising, lifting something heavy, laughing, etc).

      If you're feeling embarrassed or find it difficult to talk with your doctor, write down your questions at home before you go to the doctor's office. Then, when you get to your appointment, take out your piece of paper and begin to read from it. You might even want to practice saying these questions out loud when you're alone. That will make it easier to say them during your appointment. Here's some questions you might consider asking to get things started:

      • "Could what I eat or drink cause bladder leakage?"
      • "Could my medicines cause bladder leakage?"
      • "What are the treatments to regain bladder control? Which one is best for me?"

       

      Remember, under a doctor's care, incontinence can be treated and possibly cured. Even if treatment is not completely successful, careful management can help you feel more relaxed and confident. And this all begins by talking with your doctor and providing as much information as possible.

       

    • Q What's bowel incontinence and what causes it?

      A

      Bowel incontinence is the inability to control your bowel movements, causing stool (feces) to leak unexpectedly from your rectum. Also called fecal incontinence, bowel incontinence ranges from an occasional leakage of stool while passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control.

      Bowel incontinence affects more than five million Americans. Both men and women suffer from this problem, although it's more common in women because of the injury to the anal muscles or nerves that can occur during childbirth. It becomes more common with advancing age as the muscles that control bowel movements (anal sphincter muscles) weaken.

      Many people resort to altering their social and physical activities, even their employment, to cope with the problem. However, finding the right incontinence product can go a long way in boosting their confidence. We recommend DEPEND® Adjustable Underwear. It offers maximum absorbency, worry-free odor control and it's designed to be changed two ways. Step in and out of it like regular underwear or open the side perforations for easy changing without having to remove pants and shoes. Four prefastened tabs help provide a snug, custom fit.

       

    • Q What's irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and what causes it?

      A

      Nearly one in five American adults have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is characterized by abdominal pain or cramping and changes in bowel function, including bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation.

      It's not known exactly what causes IBS. If you have IBS, the muscles that line your intestines may contract stronger and last longer than normal, forcing food through your intestines quicker, causing gas, bloating and diarrhea. Conversely, food passage slows and stools become hard and dry. Abnormalities in your nervous system or colon may also play a role, causing you to experience greater than normal discomfort when your abdomen stretches from gas.

      For many people, IBS causes symptoms that are mild, which do not interfere with daily activities. For others, IBS may severely compromise their quality of life. Finding the right incontinence product can go a long way in boosting his or her confidence.

      For mild IBS, try DEPEND® for Women Underwear or DEPEND® for Men Underwear, which will offer moderate protection in a pull-on style, just like regular underwear. For more pronounced IBS symptoms, DEPEND® Protection with Tabs offers maximum absorbency with side barriers to protect against leakage, and six EasyGrip™ Tabs for discreet, easy removal.

       

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  2. Living & Managing Incontinence in Men

    • Q How can I prevent and manage accidents?

      A

      A weakened or overactive bladder doesn't have to keep you from living your life. There are steps you can take to prevent accidents or to manage them discreetly when they do happen.

      • Make simple changes

        • Keep the path to the bathroom clear and well lit at night if need be.
        • Wear easy-to-open clothes.
        • Empty your bladder before bed, a big meeting or a trip.

         

      • Use the right incontinent product

        DEPEND® Brand offers many styles and products designed to fit your needs and lifestyle. We have a comprehensive range of size and absorbency levels. Use our product finder to find the most appropriate products for your needs.

      • Minimize odors

        When you have an accident, odor may be one of your first concerns. Through you can't prevent it completely, you can curb it. First, stay hydrated-without going overboard. The more concentrated your urine is, the stronger it smells. Next, consider taking urine-deodorizing tablets, such as vitamin C, or supplements made for this purpose. You can also help reduce urine odor by drinking apple, pear, cherry or other non-citrus juices.

      • Stay sensibly hydrated

        Drink at least six to seven 8 oz glasses of water a day to keep your bladder healthy. When you drink less water, your urine is more concentrated and may irritate the lining of the urethra and bladder.

      • Pay attention to your diet

        Lot of things-including caffeine, alcohol, acidic foods (like tomatoes and citrus fruits) and drinks, chocolate, artificial sweeteners, hot spices and carbonated drinks-can irritate your bladder. Take time to learn what foods and drinks trigger your leakage and then remove them from your diet.

      • Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles

        Learning where your pelvic floor muscles are and how to isolate them can help you make the most of pelvic floor exercises called Kegels. You can do Kegels anywhere, without anyone noticing. With a little practice, Kegels can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles-and that can help reduce feelings of urgency, the need to frequently urinate and accidents.

       

    • Q How do I get a good night's sleep?

      A

      Preparation is everything. Take these steps to prevent accidents from happening:

      • Limit your fluid intake before bedtime

        Try not to drinks liquids after 6 p.m.

      • Avoid bladder-irritating foods and beverages

        This includes caffeine, alcohol, acidic foods (like tomatoes and citrus fruits) and drinks, chocolate, artificial sweeteners, hot spices and carbonated drinks.

      • Double void before bed

        In other words, urinate twice right before bed.

      • Do pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels)

         

      • Use the right incontinent product

        Modern incontinence products, like DEPEND®, Brand, use super absorbent polymers (SAP) that lock in urine and hold more fluid so they're more protective. DEPEND® Brand offers many styles and products designed to fit your needs and lifestyle. We have a comprehensive range of size and absorbency levels. Use our product finder to find the most appropriate products for your needs.

       

    • Q How do I talk to my loved ones about incontinence?

      A

      First, figure out a good time and place to talk. Look for a quiet, comfortable environment where you'll have privacy-and be sure to give yourselves enough time. Think about what you're going to say in advance. You'll want to explain the nature of your condition, why it has happened, how it affects you, and what treatment you're trying.

      Plan to give your loved ones a chance to ask questions. Experts say people with incontinence often overestimate how much the news will embarrass or upset their loved ones. And by trusting them enough to tell them, you could make your relationship much stronger than before.

       

    • Q How do I manage incontinence at work?

      A
      • Use the right incontinence product

        Modern incontinence solutions, like DEPEND® Brand products, use super absorbent polymers (SAP) that lock in urine and hold more fluid so they're more protective. DEPEND® Brand offers many styles and products designed to fit your needs and lifestyle. We have a comprehensive range of size and absorbency levels. Use our product finder to find the most appropriate products for your needs.

      • Avoid the caffeine or water

        The caffeine in coffee makes it diuretic, which increases your need to go.

      • Wear dark-colored business attire

        Not only is it timeless-looking but it also hides a multitude of problems, including little stains.

      • Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels)-even in meetings

        Kegel exercises are a method of managing leakage from stress incontinence. To do Kegels, contract the muscles that you would use to stop the flow of urine. Hold the contraction for three seconds and then relax. Do this eight to 10 times, at least three times a week.

       

    • Q How do I do Kegels (pelvic floor muscle exercises)? And do they help?

      A

      Kegel exercises help tighten your pelvic floor muscles. Locate the pelvic muscles by pretending to stop the flow of urine. Squeeze and hold these muscles for three seconds, then relax for a count of three. Your goal is to try to do 10 tightening/relaxing exercises for a set. Rest and then do two more sets (30 exercises total) each day. Your doctor can give you more exact directions.

      Kegel exercises work the muscles that you use to stop urinating. Making these muscles stronger helps you hold urine in your bladder longer.

      Yes, exercises often help, particularly for persons with the stress type of bladder problem. You should consult with your doctor about the type of bladder weakness you have, and which exercises are best for you.

       

    • Q How long before Kegel exercises begin to help?

      A

      Depending on the type of bladder weakness you have, you may begin to feel the benefit of exercises after just a few weeks, and after eight to 12 months there is a good chance you'll have reduced symptoms or even be symptom-free. Even if you're not symptom-free, exercises may improve your situation and, with the right products to help you, you can regain your confidence. The sooner you act, the better. Most people wait so long that it takes the body some time to get back to earlier routines. Please consult your doctor about your particular situation.

       

    • Q How do I control odor?

      A

      The best way to control odors is a combination of good hygiene, overall body cleanliness, staying properly hydrated, and using fresh, clean undergarments. Always dispose of products in an airtight container. When traveling or sharing a house with others, dispose of each incontinence garment in a plastic bag with a zip-style seal. Also consider taking urine-deodorizing tablets, such as vitamin C, or supplements made for this purpose. You can also help reduce urine odor by drinking apple, pear, cherry or other non-citrus juices. Finally, because sometimes people are not aware that an odor is present, find someone you trust to tell you honestly if there is any odor anywhere.

       

    • Q I have a pretty active life. Do you have any tips for changing on the go?

      A

      Yes. Here are some simple things you can do to always make sure you're ready, no matter where you are.

      • Make a backpack or messenger bag part of your on-the-go look

        Carry a few other personal items inside (sunglasses, notebook, jacket, etc) so it makes sense if anyone asks why you're carrying it. Use this bag to carry a change into a public restroom and carry it out to the wastebasket.

      • Keep plastic bags on hand for disposal

        Get the darker blue kind to mask what's inside if you need to toss it out in public. You'll be able to find these bags, or special deodorized disposal bags, in most stores or online.

      • Keep a couple of "emergency" changes in your glove box

        Don't forget to replenish your supply.

      • Keep a gym bag full of essentials in your trunk

         

      • Wear cargo pants and/or a bulky jacket with an elastic waistband that zips

        These clothing items offer a handy way to get from your trunk to a public restroom, or from your seat on the plane to the restroom.

      • If you're wearing DEPEND® Guards for Men take advantage of the fact that this product is the same size as your wallet, making it easy to put into your pocket and then take into a restroom.

         

      • Set a schedule for regular changes

         

      • Be sure to carry a spare in either a waist pack, or sports bags when you're not carrying a backpack or messenger bag.

         

      • Have confidence in what you're doing and no one will think twice of your personal care.

         

      • Locate bathrooms ahead of time-especially in places you visit frequently

        Planning ahead makes all the difference.

       

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  3. Men's Incontinence Products FAQs

    • Q Are DEPEND® Boost Inserts still available?

      A

      DEPEND® no longer offers Boost Inserts. Instead, we recommend you try DEPEND® for Men Underwear. With a snug fit at the waist and protection where you need it most, they offer a comfortable solution.

      If you're unsure which product is right for you, the product selector on our Product page can help you decide - or if you'd like to speak to someone, try our Chat Online feature or call 1-877-413-3736.

       

    • Q Are DEPEND® Belted Shields still available?

      A

      DEPEND® no longer offers Belted Shields. Instead, we recommend you try DEPEND® for Men Underwear. Or for protection that's easy to change on the go, our DEPEND® Adjustable Underwear may be right for you - they feature side perforations to provide an adjustable fit and allow you to slip them off, underwear style, or change them without stepping out of your pants and shoes.

      If you re unsure which product is right for you, the product selector on our Product page can help you decide - or if you'd like to speak to someone, try our Chat Online feature or call 1-877-413-3736.

       

    • Q Which DEPEND® products should I use for IBS?

      A

      For mild IBS, try DEPEND® for Men Underwear, which will offer maximum protection in a pull-on style, just like regular underwear. For more pronounced IBS symptoms, DEPEND® Protection with Tabs offers maximum absorbency with side barriers to protect against leakage, and six EasyGrip™ Tabs for discreet, easy removal.

       

    • Q Do you have specific products for Men and Women, or are they unisex?

      A

      We make both kinds of DEPEND® Brand products. Because men and women have different needs, we have designed some products specifically for each gender. We offer three types of "men-only" products-DEPEND® Guards for Men and DEPEND® for Men Underwear in Colors and DEPEND® for Men Underwear and two "women-only" products, DEPEND® for Women Underwear in Colors and DEPEND® For Women Underwear. Our DEPEND® Adjustable Underwear is for both men and women.

       

    • Q Do any of your products have a fly in front?

      A

      No. None of our products have a fly in front in order to provide the best protection. However, we offer three products designed specifically for a man's body in order to provide protection where men need it most. These products are DEPEND® Guards for Men and DEPEND® for Men Underwear in Colors and DEPEND® for Men Underwear.

       

    • Q Which product is most absorbent?

      A

      While all DEPEND® Brand products use our patented ABSORB LOC® Core to absorb liquids and help keep you dry, products labeled "Maximum Absorbency" are our highest level of protection.

       

    • Q Which Ingredients are DEPEND® Brand products made of?

      A

      DEPEND® Brand products have cotton-like outer covers that look and feel like underwear. Inside, there's a thin, absorbent pad made of super absorbent polymers (SAP) that draws wetness in, away from the skin. All are latex-free and contain no lotions or fragrances.

       

    • Q How do you dispose of DEPEND® Brand products?

      A

      DEPEND® Brand products were designed to be used once and then discarded in a trash bag or other waste container. Please do not flush. There are lots of ways you can discreetly dispose these products while you're on the go. Click here for tips.

       

    • Q Do you make an absorbent product for the pool?

      A

      No, unfortunately, we dont. However, you can get an effective swim brief for an adult that goes under a regular swimsuit from www.discoverytrekking.com.

       

    • Q How often should I change my DEPEND® Brand product?

      A

      That depends on you and the extent of your condition. However, DEPEND® Brand products use more super absorbent polymers (SAP) to ensure they can withstand multiple wettings of varying amounts. This means you don't have to change them as often as less-expensive, non-premium brands.

       

    • Q Are DEPEND® Brand products washable?

      A

      No. DEPEND® Brand products are designed for single use only.

       

    • Q What product do you recommend for bowel incontinence?

      A

      We recommend DEPEND® Adjustable Underwear. It offers maximum absorbency, worry-free odor control and it's designed to be changed two ways. Step in and out of it like regular underwear or open the side perforations for easy changing without having to remove pants and shoes. Four prefastened tabs help provide a snug, custom fit.

       

    • Q Can I get samples of DEPEND® Brand products?

      A

      Yes. You can order free samples of DEPEND® Brand products online so you can find the best product for you and your needs. Click here to learn more about our free DEPEND® Sample Pack or call 1-866-641-7314 to speak to a helpful DEPEND® Brand representative.

       

    • Q Where can I find more information on DEPEND® Brand products?

      A

      There are several ways you learn more about DEPEND® Brand products and ensure you stay "in the loop" on our latest products. These include:

      • Explore our website, Depend.com, just like you're doing now

         

      • Sign up for DEPEND® Connections

        Our monthly e-newsletter that contains articles and advice for maintaining your lifestyle, the latest products and FAQs

      • Join the conversation in the DEPEND® Community Boards

        Comment on articles and share stories and advice with people just like you in these safe and monitored online forums.

       

       

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  4. Incontinence Support FAQs

    • Q Where can I learn more about incontinence?

      A

      No doubt knowledge is power, especially when it comes to managing incontinence. The more you know, the more you live your life and not your condition. The good news is, there are lots of reputable online sources and organizations where you can find trustworthy and timely information. These include:

      • National Association for Continence

        A national, non-profit organization dedicated to destigmatizing incontinence, promoting preventive measures and motivating individuals to seek treatment.

      • WebMD.com

        The leading online source for trustworthy and timely health and medical news and information.

      • MayoClinic.com

        The online site for the Mayo Clinic, one of the most highly respected medical practices in the world.

       

       

    • Q What's a Flexible Spending Account and how can it help me?

      A

      A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is an optional benefit plan offered by many U.S. employers that allows you to set aside part of your pre-tax earnings to pay for qualifying healthcare expenses, including, but not limited to, DEPEND® Brand products.

      The money you contribute to your flexible spending account is taken out of your paycheck before taxes are taken out. In effect, you lower your taxable income for tax savings. The "pretax funds" in your FSA allow you to pay for qualifying healthcare expenses that are not covered by your health plan, such as doctor visit co-pays, prescriptions, dental expenses, and more.

       

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  5. Prostate Health & Incontinence FAQs

    • Q What is the prostate gland?

      A

      The prostate is a small gland in men that's part of the reproductive system. It's about the shape and size of a walnut. The prostate rests below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. The prostate helps make semen, which carries sperm from the testicles when a man ejaculates.

       

    • Q What are the most common prostate problems?

      A

      The most common prostate health problems men encounter include:

      • Prostatitus

        This is an infection (usually bacterial) that can be treated with antibiotic.

      • Enlarged prostate gland

        The prostate grows in almost all men as they age. In some cases, the enlargement can become troublesome-a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This a common problem, affecting more than 50% of the men in their sixties. BPH has many symptoms that vary from person to person, and it can be treated in many different ways. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, BPH can be managed with lifestyle changes, medication or surgery, and some of these treatments, especially surgery, can lead to incidences of incontinence.

      • Prostate cancer

        This is when a malignant tumor forms in in the prostate gland, which can spread throughout the body and cause significant health problems. Next to lung cancer, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death in men. Close to 230,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, and is fatal in 30,000 men.

       

       

    • Q How do I practice good prostate health?

      A

      There are several things you can do to improve your prostate health, including:

      • Watch your diet

        Men who eat least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day are at lower risk of developing cancer of any kind, including prostate cancer.

      • Get active

        It's recommended you exercise for at least 30 minutes daily.

      • Have an annual physical

        Make it a practice to have a physical every year so you can detect prostate cancer and other health issues before they get out of hand.

       

       

    • Q Why do prostate cancer treatments cause urinary incontinence?

      A

      The prostate gland surrounds the urethra. Because enlarged prostate glands can obstruct the urethra, a man with an enlarged prostate can have urination retention or other problems with urination.

      Removing the prostate through surgery or destroying it through radiation (either with an external beam or with radioactive seed implants) disrupts the way the bladder holds urine and can result in urine leakage. Radiation can decrease the capacity of the bladder and cause spasms that force urine out. Surgery can, at times, damage the nerves that help control bladder function too.

       

    • Q What can I do to treat my urinary continence after prostate cancer surgery?

      A

      There are many things you can do-both large and small-to improve your symptoms after prostate cancer surgery. These include:

      • Pelvic floor treatments

        Many doctors prefer to start with behavorial techniques that that train you to control your ability to hold your urine. A popular set of exercises, called Kegel exercises, strengthens the muscles you squeeze when trying to stop urinating mid-stream. These exercises can be combined with biofeedback programs that help you train these muscles even better.

      • Supportive care

        This treatment includes behavior modification, such as drinking fewer fluids, avoiding caffeine, alcohol, or spices and not drinking at bedtime. People are encouraged to urinate regularly and not wait until the last possible moment before doing so. In some people, losing weight may result in improved urinary control. Supportive care also involves changing medications that interfere with incontinence.

      • Medication

        A variety of medications can increase bladder capacity and decrease frequency of urination. In the near future, newer medications will become available to help stop some other forms of urinary leakage.

      • Neuromuscular electrical stimulation

        This treatment is used to retrain and strengthen weak urinary muscles and improve bladder control. With this treatment, a probe is inserted into the anus and a current is passed through the probe at a level below the pain threshold, causing a contraction. The patient is instructed to squeeze the muscles when the current is on. After the contraction, the current is switched off.

      • Surgery, injections and devices

        A number of techniques may improve bladder functions. These include:

        • Artificial sphincter.

          This patient-controlled device is made of three parts: a pump, a pressure-regulating balloon, and a cuff that encircles the urethra and prevents urine from leaking. The use of the artificial sphincter can cure or greatly improve more than 70% to 80% of patients.

        • Bulbourethral sling.

          For some types of leakage, a sling can be used. A sling is a device used to suspend and compress the urethra. It is made from synthetic material or from the patient's own tissue and is used to create the urethral compression necessary to achieve bladder control.

        • Other surgery.

          Your doctor can also do a surgery that has helped some men. It involves placing rubber rings around the tip of the bladder to help hold urine.

         

       

       

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