Male incontinence - An introduction
One in every four men over 40 years old* deals with urine leakage, also known as incontinence. The best way to find a solution is to learn more about the causes and types of male incontinence.
One in every four men over 40 years old* deals with urine leakage. The best way to find a solution for bladder problems in men is to learn more about the causes and types of male incontinence.
*Based on a survey conducted by Essity in 2012, with men over 40 in the US, UK, Germany, Italy, Russia, and Mexico. Data on file not published.
The most common types of bladder problems for men
Although bladder pain in men is not a common symptom of incontinence, a bladder that is unable to empty properly is uncomfortable and potentially embarrassing, and you will want to get a diagnosis. The best way to establish which type of bladder problem you are dealing with is to consult a doctor. Once they understand the cause, they can rule out other issues and begin to help you find the right treatment.
There are a number of different types of bladder problems that are common for men. Read about the main types of urinary incontinence below.
Urge urinary incontinence
Urge incontinence is the most common type of incontinence in men and refers to a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary leakage. One of the main causes of urge incontinence in men is an enlarged prostate, which causes bladder-emptying difficulties, and gives you the sensation of needing to pass urine when you don’t want to, including during the night. In some cases, such urges may be the result of bladder irritation from an infection or bladder stones. It can also develop as a complication of a nerve- or brain-related illness such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis.
Stress urinary incontinence
Stress incontinence refers to involuntary leakage that occurs when you exert pressure on your bladder by for example sneezing, laughing or lifting something heavy. The sphincter or pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support the bladder are too weak to hold urine in. This type of incontinence is not generally common in men but may develop in some men after prostate surgery.
Post-micturition dribble
This condition involves involuntary leakage immediately after passing urine, and is the result of urine remaining in the urethra. Many men over 60 experience PMD, but it can also appear at a younger age. PMD may be due to weakness in the pelvic floor muscles that surround the urethra. If so, it can be treated by exercising the pelvic floor muscles, and by milking the urethra after voiding.
When urine remains in the urethra, a dribble can occur after urinating. “Milking” the urethra can be helpful. This is done by pressing gently on the urethra behind the scrotum, to push out the trapped urine.
How to get better
There are different ways to improve your bladder control. Diagnosing and treating an enlarged prostate is one of the most important. Doing pelvic floor exercises and restricting your intake of alcohol and caffeine are two more examples. The best way to start regaining control is to consult your doctor so that you can find the best solution for your specific situation.
You can also find more helpful tips and advice as well as useful exercises on our website.
Choosing the right product
Knowing which products work best for you is crucial. Over the years we’ve helped millions of men worldwide manage their incontinence and feel in control. You can join them by simply choosing the right absorbent product for your needs.
* Based on survey conducted by Essity in 2012, with men over 40 in the US, UK Germany, Italy, Russia and Mexico. Data on file not published.
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Male incontinence - An introduction
One in every four men over 40 years old* deals with urine leakage, also known as incontinence. The best way to find a solution is to learn more about the causes and types of male incontinence.