Leakage starting three years after prostate surgery

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Hello, I had minimal to no leakage (usually a few drops from physical exertion, not even every day) for about two and a half years after prostate removal. However in the last six months I'm having more leakage multiple times daily, though still only a few drops at a time. I don't wear any protection yet. Anyone else experience this late onset of dripping? Did it get worse, improve? Are you doing anything about it? I am going to have a cystoscopy in a couple weeks, which may reveal I don't know what. Any insights appreciated. Thanks you fellow travelers.

 

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Are you saying prostate surgical procedure or prostatectomy?

 

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Thank you for asking, yes I mean a radical prostatectomy.

 

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Too early for me to comment; but here is my experience. I had severe incontinence in the first two months after prostatectomy and was quite depressed and wondered about long term situation. The surgeon reassured that it will pass. Since then (it has been six months post op) only occasional drips during day time, especially when sneezing or sudden activity. I am told the incontinence should not return, but time will tell. So far so good. Hope your troubles are temporary and the situation will improve. Please continue doing your Kegals and be active (regular exercises) which is what I am doing on the advice of my surgeon and family doctor. Good luck

 

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Gayola, I’m 5 years out RP and still PSA <0.1, the most important thing. Sounds like you’re progressing well as compared to my experience. I was down to 1-2 pads/day with extreme activity levels for my 75 years. You didn’t say your age, which I think is a huge factor. I’m still doing kegels, but highly reduced. Going into year 6, I’ve found an increase in leakage. Hope it’s not the a harbinger of time.

Frankly am amazed that anyone over 65 would ever be entirely continent after prostatectomy, even with sling or AUS. Intervention of a pad seems to still be required unless one is willing to have multiple drips of urine stained undies.

Had cystoscope in year 3 as many guys after RP have had, and nothing was found, except to continue to strengthen pelvic floor-which I agree with.

Most recently, recommendation have changed around delaying RP for those over 60-65 unless very high levels of cancer are detected by biopsies and MRI.

Keep up your progress.

 

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It's a good thing to keep in close, continual contact with your urologist. Incontinence is NOT ONE THING. That is, all cases are not alike. (I had a radical prostatectomy 14 years ago). After trying pads and pull-ups, I settled for an external catheter, drain tube, and leg bag. I do not regret it. I'm 88, so I'm not opting for a sling or other installed devices. I also read everything published on this forum and website, plus YouTube and the National Library of Medicine.

I've concentrated on perfecting the various parts of the system to make it work as well as possible. The great need is a reliable system that I'm in charge of. A feeling of control is essential to avoid discouragement or depression. I have that and feel secure going shopping, to church, or wherever.