Urinary incontinence in men is the involuntary leakage of urine, which can range from occasional dribbling to complete loss of bladder control. While more common in women, urinary incontinence affects millions of men and can significantly impact daily life and self-confidence.

There are different types of incontinence in men, including stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overflow incontinence, and functional incontinence. Common causes include prostate problems, neurological conditions, and weakened bladder muscles.

At Golden Gate Urology, we offer compassionate care and tailored treatment options to help you regain control and improve your quality of life. If you are struggling with urinary leakage, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and treatment options.

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Causes

Urinary incontinence in men can occur for a variety of reasons, often related to prostate health, nerve damage, or weakened bladder muscles.
Common causes include:

  • Prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
  • Prostate surgery (prostatectomy) or radiation therapy for prostate cancer
  • Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injury
  • Bladder muscle overactivity (overactive bladder)
  • Chronic constipation
  • Obesity, smoking, and chronic coughing
  • Certain medications that relax bladder muscles

Stress incontinence occurs when urine leaks during activities that put pressure on the bladder, like coughing, sneezing, or lifting. Urge incontinence involves a sudden, intense urge to urinate, while overflow incontinence happens when the bladder doesn’t empty fully, causing frequent dribbling.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing urinary incontinence in men starts with a medical history and physical exam. Your doctor may ask about your symptoms, fluid intake, and any medications you are taking.
Tests may include:

  • Urinalysis and urine culture to check for infection or blood
  • Post-void residual test to see how much urine remains in your bladder after urination
  • Bladder diary to track urination patterns
  • Urodynamic testing to evaluate bladder function
  • Cystoscopy to look at the bladder and urethra

These tests help determine the type and cause of incontinence so the right treatment plan can be developed.

Treatment

Treatment for urinary incontinence in men depends on the type, cause, and severity of the condition.
Options include:

  • Behavioral strategies: Bladder training, scheduled voiding, and fluid management
  • Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening the pelvic muscles with Kegel exercises can improve bladder control
  • Medications: To relax the bladder muscles or shrink the prostate
  • Medical devices: Urethral inserts or external catheters
  • Surgery: In severe cases, procedures such as urethral slings, artificial urinary sphincters, or prostate surgery may be recommended

Your doctor will discuss the most appropriate options to help you manage your symptoms effectively.

FAQs

What are the common types of incontinence in men?

The most common types are stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overflow incontinence, and functional incontinence.

Why does prostate surgery cause incontinence?

Prostate surgery can sometimes weaken or damage the muscles and nerves that control urination, leading to leakage.

How is incontinence in men diagnosed?

Through a combination of medical history, urine tests, imaging, and urodynamic studies to determine the cause and type.

Can lifestyle changes help?

Yes — losing weight, quitting smoking, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and doing pelvic exercises can reduce symptoms.

When should I see a doctor?

If urinary leakage affects your daily life or if you experience pain, blood in urine, or frequent infections, seek medical advice.