Types of Urinary Incontinence

Types of Urinary Incontinence

There are three common types of urinary incontinence that occur in men: 1, 2
Type Causes Symptoms
Stress Urinary Incontinence Weak of pelvic floor muscles or sphincter
  • Bladder leakage when you cough, laugh, sneeze or engage in physical activity
  • Urine leakage in small amounts
  • No incontinence at night
Urge Urinary Incontinence Abnormal bladder contractions
  • Strong, uncontrolled urge to urinate
  • More frequent urination
  • Bladder leakage at night
  • Difficulty making it to the bathroom
  • Leakage in moderate to large amounts
Overflow Urinary Incontinence Bladder fails to contract as it should because of weak bladder muscles;

Bladder can’t empty properly because of an obstruction to the urethra
  • Bladder never feels empty
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Dribbling/leakage after urinating
  • Frequent need to urinate, including at night

Footnotes:

  1. Albaugh, J. (2007). Life After Prostate Treatment: Focus on Incontinence. Us TOO HotSheet: Prostate Cancer and Incontinence: Coping Strategies and Treatment Options.
  2. Newman, D.K. (2002). Managing and Treating Urinary Incontinence, Second Edition. Baltimore: Health Professions Press. (pp. 111-123)

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