Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence: A Complete Guide for Recovery and Confidence
Living with incontinence after prostate surgery is more common than most people realise. If you or someone you care for is navigating post-prostatectomy leaks, this guide will help you understand what’s happening, what can help, and how to feel confident again—with practical support and products tailored for men.
What Is Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence?
Prostatectomy—surgical removal of the prostate—can affect the nerves and muscles that control the bladder. As a result, many men experience temporary or ongoing incontinence. In fact, up to 95% of men experience urinary leakage in the weeks following prostate surgery, though most regain control within 3 to 12 months [1].
This isn’t just your story—it’s a shared reality for thousands of Australian men. And while it can feel like a loss of control, help is out there. With the right information and tools, it’s possible to regain control and comfort.
Why Incontinence Happens After Prostate Surgery
During surgery, the muscles and nerves that help control your bladder can take a bit of a hit. How much leaking happens afterward—and how long it sticks around—often depends on the type of surgery you’ve had. If the surgeon was able to preserve some of the surrounding nerves (called a nerve-sparing prostatectomy), recovery is usually quicker. If the nerves needed to be removed, it might take longer to bounce back—but progress is still possible.
As a result, men may experience:
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Stress incontinence – leaking during physical activity, coughing, or sneezing
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Urge incontinence – sudden, overwhelming need to urinate
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Overflow incontinence – constant dribbling due to incomplete bladder emptying
Recovery varies, but with time and support, many men see significant improvement.
Managing Post-Prostatectomy Leaks: Practical Strategies
Regaining control is about small, consistent steps. Post-prostatectomy incontinence can feel overwhelming at first, but many men experience improvement with the right approach. These strategies combine lifestyle adjustments, physical rehabilitation, and supportive products—forming a practical foundation for managing leaks and building confidence.
1. Pelvic Floor Exercises
Start with daily pelvic floor exercises (often called Kegels). These help rebuild muscle strength around the urethra, which plays a key role in controlling urine flow.
- Focus on squeezing the muscles you’d use to stop urination midstream.
- Need help getting started? Check out Pelvic Floor Exercises for men here.
- Prefer an app? Try Squeezy for Men—widely used and available on Australian app stores.
- Hold each squeeze for 5–10 seconds, then relax.
- Aim for 3 sets of 10 reps each day.
Pelvic floor training can significantly reduce both stress and urge incontinence after prostate surgery. Over time, it enhances bladder control and reduces the frequency of leaks.
2. Bladder Training
Gradually increase the time between bathroom visits to train your bladder to hold more urine. This helps reduce urgency and improves the consistency of voiding.
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Start with a bathroom schedule (e.g., every hour), then increase intervals by 15–30 minutes.
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Use distraction techniques or breathing exercises to delay urination.
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Record successes and setbacks in a bladder diary.
Download a free bladder diary template here:
https://www.continence.org.au/pages/bladder-and-bowel-diaries.html
And a quick heads-up: If you’ve ever had trouble fully emptying your bladder or starting to pee, check with your doctor before trying bladder delay techniques.
This method supports long-term improvement in managing post-prostatectomy leaks and is especially useful for those dealing with urge incontinence.
3. Dietary Awareness
Your diet plays a major role in bladder function. Some foods and drinks act as bladder irritants, making incontinence symptoms worse.
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Limit caffeine (coffee, tea, soft drinks), alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners.
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Eat fibre-rich foods to prevent constipation, which can put pressure on the bladder.
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Drink enough fluids to stay hydrated, but avoid drinking large amounts at once.
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Consider bladder-friendly choices like oats, bananas, apples, and water-rich vegetables.
Improving your diet helps reduce the frequency of leaks and supports overall urinary tract health.
4. Incontinence Products
After prostate surgery, leaks can happen unexpectedly—so it helps to have protection that’s made for exactly this stage of recovery.
Use absorbent products designed specifically for post-surgery male incontinence.
Not sure what level of absorbency you need? Here’s a quick guide:
- Light – For the occasional leak, especially during movement or sneezing
- Moderate – For day-to-day support as you build bladder strength
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Maximum – For heavier or overnight leaks, especially early in recovery
That’s where Invizi Male Guards come in. They’re made to move with you, stay in place, and keep you feeling dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Here’s what to look for in a good post-surgery pad:
- Anatomical shaping designed for male anatomy
- Strong adhesive to keep it secure in your underwear
- Soft, breathable materials to support skin health
- Built-in odour control for added confidence
Invizi guards are discreet under clothes and trusted by men across Australia. They come in multiple absorbency levels, so you can choose what works for you—whether you're heading back to work, moving more, or just want peace of mind.
5. Track Your Progress
Monitoring your symptoms helps you understand your body’s rhythm and recovery. It also supports better conversations with healthcare providers.
Keep a daily log that includes:
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Leak frequency and volume
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Triggers (e.g., movement, coughing, laughing)
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Fluid intake
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Bathroom habits
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Product use and performance
This data makes it easier to see progress over time and adapt your routine as needed.
Choosing the Best Pads for Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence
Not all incontinence products are created equal—especially for post-surgical needs. Here’s what to look for:
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Targeted fit for male anatomy
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High absorbency for daily and overnight use
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Odour control
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Secure adhesive or shaping to prevent shifting
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Discreet design under clothes
Invizi Male Guards are designed with all these in mind—and they're one of the top-rated male incontinence products in Australia.
How to Buy Male Guards After Prostate Surgery in Australia
Getting the right product is easy:
- Choose your absorbency – Light, Moderate, or Maximum
- Order online at confidenceclub.com.au – fast, discreet delivery Australia-wide
- Subscribe and save – never run out with our flexible delivery plans. All orders ship in plain packaging, and your privacy is always respected. And if you’re not sure which product is right, our care team is trained to help—no awkwardness, just honest support.
- Wear with ease – just peel, position, and go
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Support if you need it – our customer care team is here to help
You're Not Alone – Mental & Emotional Support
Leaks aren’t just physical—they can affect how you feel about your confidence, relationships, and day-to-day life. And that’s completely normal.
If you're feeling low, anxious, or frustrated, talking to someone can make a big difference. These services offer free and confidential support in Australia:
- Beyond Blue – beyondblue.org.au
- MensLine Australia – 1300 789 978
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia Support Groups – pcfa.org.au
Getting support for your mental wellbeing is just as important as managing your physical recovery.
Confidence, Comfort, and Recovery — Made Simple
Male incontinence after surgery is nothing to be ashamed of. With the right strategies, support, and products, it’s possible to live well and feel in control again.
Whether you're just starting recovery or looking for a more effective solution, ConfidenceClub is here with products that work and people who care.
When to See a Specialist
If your symptoms don’t improve after a few months—or if things feel worse than expected—it might be time for extra help. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Consider speaking with:
- A urologist – for expert insights on surgical recovery
- A pelvic floor physiotherapist – for personalised exercises
- A continence nurse advisor – for day-to-day management tips
Help via the National Continence Helpline
For free and confidential support, call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66. Available Mon–Fri, 8 am–8 pm AEST/AEDT. Nurse Continence Specialists can provide advice, guide you to local clinics, and help you with management plans—no referral required
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is post-surgery incontinence permanent?
Not usually. Most men see big improvements in the first 3 to 12 months, especially if they’re doing pelvic floor training.
Q: Can I still work or exercise?
Yes—many men go back to work or the gym with no problem. Using guards for support during recovery makes it much easier.
Q: Will it affect sex and intimacy?
It can, but you're not alone there either. Open communication, using the right products, and talking to your doctor can help you feel more confident and in control.
Q: Can I travel while I’m still leaking?
Absolutely. It just takes a little planning. Pack extra pads, a spare pair of underwear, and disposal bags in your carry-on or glovebox. Travel-size packs make it easier than you'd think.
Q: What if I leak even after going to the toilet?
That’s called post-micturition dribble—and it’s very common after prostate surgery. Pelvic floor exercises and double voiding (waiting a few seconds, then trying to urinate again) can help.
Q: What if I feel embarrassed talking about it?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to do this alone. Support is available from people who get it. The National Continence Helpline (1800 33 00 66) offers free, confidential help from Nurse Continence Specialists.
💬 Questions? Need personalised help? Contact our friendly team here.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your health condition.