Types of Incontinence in Men
The main types of incontinence in men are described below. We have used the correct medical term so you will recognize it when talking to your doctor.
Urge Incontinence
Also known as an overactive bladder, this is the most common incontinence type for men. You experience a sudden urge to urinate and the bladder involuntarily expels urine. This is usually due to interference in the nerve signals between bladder and brain, often linked to either an enlarged prostate or the aftermath of prostate surgery.
You may also find that you need to urinate more frequently than the usual 4-8 times a day, and maybe also at night too. However, in certain cases you can 'train' your bladder to urinate less frequently and to avoid urinating at night. Visit Exercises to Help with Incontinence to learn more.
Stress Incontinence
Around 10% of male incontinence occurs with a sudden physical exertion such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercise or heavy lifting. It usually only involves small amounts and is generally connected to a weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. To find exercises that can strengthen the pelvic floor go to Exercises to Help with Incontinence to learn about male incontinence exercises.
Mixed Incontinence
Some 10-30% of men experience mixed symptoms. Usually it's a combination of Stress Incontinence and Urge Incontinence. If you happen to have both incontinence types, there's usually one that causes more of a problem than the other, so you should focus on dealing with the most frequent symptom first.
Post-Micturition Dribble
This is when the bladder doesn't empty completely and continues to leak after urinating. This is also common with an enlarged prostate or weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Overflow Incontinence
This is a constant or episodic flow of urine, usually caused by an obstruction or nerve damage. If you're experiencing this, it's probably best to get it checked out by your doctor, as they are the best people to diagnose this type of male incontinence.
Functional Incontinence
This is an inability to reach the bathroom in time because of the difficulties caused by physical or mental illness.
Neurological Bladder Disorders
Damage to the nerves as a result of illness (such as Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis or brain injury) can affect the way the brain and bladder communicate. This results in an inability to control the bladder or empty it completely.
If you're unsure of your symptoms
You will realize by now that there are many types of incontinence in men. Certainly, everyone's experience is different. So if you're unsure of your symptoms, it might be a good idea to keep a diary recording your urination pattern for a week so you can monitor what happens. You'll then have a record to discuss with your doctor or continence advisor should you wish to. Download a bladder diary.
Now you know the types, find out how thousands of men deal with everyday incontinence and see what you can do.
Want to learn more about incontinence related terms, including different incontinence product types? Visit our Incontinence Glossary for a guide to incontinence definitions.
