Understanding Prostatectomy and Pelvic Floor Health: A Guide for Men

When most people think of pelvic floor health, they often associate it with women, particularly those who have recently given birth. However, it’s essential to recognize that men have pelvic floors too—and they can experience similar challenges.

Men can suffer from urinary leakage, pelvic pain, pelvic floor muscle tension, and constipation, just like women. These issues are especially common after a prostatectomy, the surgical removal of the prostate, which is often a treatment for prostate cancer. Consulting a pelvic health specialist can be a crucial step in addressing these symptoms and improving quality of life.

What Happens to the Pelvic Floor After Prostatectomy?

The prostate is located below the bladder, and the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body—runs directly through it. During a prostatectomy, the prostate is removed, and depending on the specifics of the surgery, the urethra or bladder neck may need to be surgically repaired. Whether or not the surrounding nerves are spared depends on the individual’s cancer and the surgical approach.

Nearly all men experience some degree of urinary incontinence immediately following the surgery. While this often improves over time, some men continue to struggle with incontinence long after their procedure. This is where the pelvic floor muscles play a vital role. Strengthening these muscles, improving endurance, and learning proper activation during daily activities can make a significant difference in recovery.

How Can Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Help?

A pelvic floor physical therapist specializes in guiding men through exercises designed to strengthen and properly engage the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises can be initiated before a prostatectomy to prepare the body or afterward as part of the recovery process.

If you or someone you care about is preparing for a prostatectomy or is already dealing with post-surgical urinary incontinence, seeking the help of a trained pelvic floor physical therapist is highly recommended. For those who may not have access to a specialist nearby or prefer to manage their recovery independently, Empower Your Pelvis offers an online program specifically designed to address these concerns. This program provides comprehensive guidance and support throughout the rehabilitation process.

To learn more and start your journey to recovery, visit our program page: Empower Your Pelvis - Prostatectomy Incontinence and the Pelvic Floor.

Taking the Next Step in Your Recovery

Addressing pelvic floor health is a vital component of recovery after a prostatectomy. By understanding the importance of these muscles and incorporating the right exercises into your routine, you can significantly improve your post-surgery outcomes. Don’t wait—take the next step toward better pelvic health today.

Get Professional Help

If you're looking for “pelvic floor therapy near me”, consider scheduling a consultation at one of our locations in Kansas City-Overland Park, Kansas, or Lees Summit, Missouri. Click here to book your appointment.

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With wellness in your pelvis-

Amanda Fisher
Owner, Empower Your Pelvis, a pelvic floor therapist in Kansas City (Overland Park, KS and Lees Summit, MO)