Urinary incontinence after prostate surgery: how long does it last and what are the solutions?

Summary

Why am I experiencing bladder leaks after prostate surgery?

How long will the leaks last?

How can I speed up my recovery?

Practical solutions during the recovery period

What if incontinence continues after one year?

Conclusion: regain confidence and freedom

The complete guide to understanding, recovery and regaining confidence

Undergoing a prostatectomy is an important step in a man’s life. After the operation, many men experience an unexpected side effect: urinary leakage.

It can be confusing and sometimes embarrassing, but the good news is that it is completely normal and, in most cases, temporary.

This guide explains why bladder leaks occur after prostate removal, how long they usually last, how to speed up recovery, and which practical solutions can help you live comfortably and confidently during the healing process.

Why am I experiencing bladder leaks after prostate surgery?

After a prostatectomy, the body needs time to regain its balance.

The prostate plays a mechanical role in the urinary system as it surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. When the prostate is removed, some of the structures that help control urination are affected, including:

• The internal sphincter, which is partially removed during surgery.

• The external sphincter, which remains but may be weakened.

• The pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder and play a key role in continence.

In the first few weeks, these muscles and tissues need to relearn how to work together. This rehabilitation period explains the temporary leaks.

In other words, leakage does not mean something has gone wrong. It is simply part of the body’s natural recovery process.

How long will the leaks last?

This is the question most men ask after prostate surgery, and the answer is reassuring: in most cases, the leaks gradually decrease until they disappear completely.

Here is a realistic recovery timeline:

• Weeks 1 to 4 – frequent leaks, especially during physical effort or when standing.

• Months 1 to 3 – gradual improvement as the muscles strengthen.

• Months 3 to 6 – most men regain good bladder control.

• Months 6 to 12 – full recovery in 60 to 80% of cases.

Recovery time can vary depending on age, the surgical technique used, the condition of the sphincter before surgery, and above all, consistency with pelvic floor exercises.

Every body heals at its own pace. What matters is steady progress, not comparison.

And if leaks persist after 12 months, there is still hope — effective medical and physiotherapy treatments are available to help restore full control.

How can I speed up my recovery?

The best way to support your recovery is through pelvic floor training.

Pelvic floor rehabilitation usually starts a few weeks after the catheter is removed. A physiotherapist will teach you how to contract the correct muscles to strengthen your sphincter control.

A few sessions are often enough to get started, but regular practice is key. It is recommended to continue Kegel exercises at home two to three times a day.

Kegel exercises involve contracting the pelvic floor muscles for five to ten seconds, then relaxing. Repeat ten times, three times a day. Results often appear after four to six weeks, with significant improvement after two to three months.

These exercises are simple, discreet, and scientifically proven to work.

Other possible techniques include:

• Biofeedback – helps you visualise muscle contractions for better control.

• Electrical stimulation – assists in activating weak pelvic muscles.

• Regular medical follow-up – ensures your progress is monitored and exercises are adapted.

Healthy lifestyle habits are also important. Maintain a healthy weight, avoid strenuous activity in the first few weeks, stay hydrated without overdoing it, and limit coffee, alcohol, and spicy foods that can irritate the bladder.

Consistency, patience, and healthy habits make all the difference.

Practical solutions during the recovery period

Even though leaks are temporary, they can still be uncomfortable. Choosing the right protection can help you stay confident and active.

Leaks after prostate surgery are usually light to moderate. The goal is to absorb effectively while maintaining comfort and dignity.

Disposable pads are convenient but can feel uncomfortable, plastic-like, and expensive in the long run.

Washable absorbent underwear, like those developed by Orykas, provide a modern, discreet, and eco-friendly alternative. Designed by urologists, they combine performance and comfort:

• Absorption up to 300 ml (about 10 fl oz)

• Soft, breathable bamboo fibre

• Machine washable and reusable up to 500 times

• Antibacterial and hypoallergenic fabric

They look just like regular underwear but keep you dry and confident throughout the day.

For men who prefer a slimmer, more elegant fit, the Orykas absorbent brief is also an excellent choice, especially when resuming normal activities.

What if incontinence continues after one year?

If leakage continues beyond 12 months, you should consult your urologist. Several effective options exist: advanced physiotherapy, medication, or minor surgical procedures such as a sling or artificial sphincter.

These approaches show high success rates, often restoring full continence. Persistent incontinence is not a dead end — modern medicine offers safe, long-lasting solutions.

Conclusion: regain confidence and freedom

Urinary incontinence after prostate surgery is a temporary phase, not a life sentence.

Most men recover full bladder control within a few months through rehabilitation, patience, and the right tools.

During recovery, Orykas underwear allows you to remain confident, active, and stylish while staying comfortable and protected.

Your body simply needs time to heal — and with the right support, normal life returns naturally.