Why It Happens and What You Can Do

This short video explains why leakage can occur after treatment and the main options to reduce distress.

This video covers:

• After surgery (prostatectomy): Bladder-neck disruption means continence relies on the external sphincter; may cause stress incontinence with activity or coughing. Leakage is often worst just after catheter removal and improves over 6–12 months.
• After radiation: Bladder/prostate irritation can cause urge incontinence; immediately after brachytherapy some men may have difficulty emptying (overflow). Leakage can also develop years later.
• Conservative measures: Empty the bladder before sex; consider shower/bath setting; use a towel; choose positions that avoid pressure on the bladder.
• Pelvic floor care: Kegel exercises and pelvic floor physiotherapy with a trained provider to build strength and control; remember urine is sterile and not harmful to you or your partner.
• Devices: Tension bands or penile devices that compress the urethra to limit leakage during sexual activity; one device (UROStop) has shown reduced leakage and distress in a study.
• Surgery (for persistent distress): Male urethral sling or artificial urinary sphincter when leakage is not controlled by conservative methods.