health sectionhealth sectionA prostectomy (also called prostatectomy) is the complete removal of the prostate. This is required as a method of prostate cancer treatment for some patients. Temporary or permanent incontinence is one of the common side effects of a prostectomy. However, men can do certain exercises to get urine control back. While this won't work in every case, UPMC Cancer Centers reports that doing the exercises is often successful in helping regain control of the bladder muscles.
Incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine in men and women. According to the National Kidney and Urological Disease Clearing House, some people "may lose a few drops of urine while running or coughing. Others may feel a strong, sudden urge to urinate just before losing a large amount of urine."
Urinary incontinence is common in men who have undergone prostate surgery. The type and severity of incontinence each man experiences may differ, ranging from slight leakage to a full-blown loss of control. Though there are medications and medical procedures available to treat this condition, the most popular form of treatment is pelvic floor exercises.
While stress incontinence is a problem most typically seen with women, men can also suffer from this potentially embarrassing condition. If left unchecked for too long, stress incontinence can damage you both socially and psychologically, as you might fear leaving the house. Fortunately, if you are suffering from male incontinence, there is hope. Many clinicians find that regular training of Kegel exercises can help alleviate suffering.
The pelvic floor is made up of muscles formed like a sling that attach to the front, back and the sides of the pelvis. This group of muscles supports the bladder, the uterus, the prostate and the rectum, and coordination of these muscles helps control bladder function. When these muscles become weak or tight, coordination may be compromised and leakage or incontinence can occur.
Regular bowel movements help to keep us healthy by excreting waste that could otherwise make us sick. Once the body extracts the necessary nutrients from the foods we eat, the leftover waste is released through our urine and bowels. A proper balanced diet that includes enough fruits, vegetables, fiber and water helps to keep our bowel movements regular.
Kegel exercises have been practiced by women who are pregnant for years. These exercises focus on the urethra and help to prevent incontinence by strengthening the muscles that control the urine stream. Read on to learn how to treat and prevent incontinence with kegel exercises.
