Why Men should exercise Pelvic Floor after Prostatectomy (Open, Laparoscopic or Robotic).
Regardless of whether you have (or will be having) a Open, Laparoscopic or Robotic Prostatectomy, you need to read this.
No matter how fit and strong you were before the surgery, you will experience strength reduction and restriction in movement following removal of prostate.
Generally, a urinary catheter is left in to clear the bladder for the first 2 weeks and the advantage of this is that you can drink as much fluid without worrying finding a toilet. However, you should be mindful with the side effects following the surgery that includes:
Stress urinary incontinence
Nocturia (need to urinate overnight)
Urgency /Hesitancy
Weak urinary stream
Dribbling (urinary leakage)
Straining (push to begin urinary stream)
Burning Pain/ discomfort while urinating
There are also other factors that can affect continence following the surgery such as stage of cancer, pre-existing urinary issues, weight, general health and age.
Usually it takes about 6-8 weeks for recovery provided that you follow tailored exercise program from Physiotherapist.
Pelvic Floor (PF) is a sling of muscle that stretches from pubic bone to tailbone. A man’s PF supports his urinary system, which are the bladder and bowel as well as sexual function. Please take note that when the catheter is attached, doing PF exercises can irritate the bladder and cause pain and discomfort.
Hence, we recommend you to do simple exercises to maintain general health and once the catheter is removed you may start to perform PF exercises. This is usually around a week after your procedure.
Pelvic floor exercises are relatively easy once you get the hang of them- the real challenge is finding the muscles. That's why we highly suggest a tailored program and the aid of a physiotherapist.
Working though your program with a trained professional will ensure that you are working the right muscles in the right way. In fact, it's not a bad idea to start doing the exercises before your procedure. That way, you lessen your chances of leaking (and maximise leaking for less time) and are familiar with the correct technique beforehand.
Even if you had your procedure a while ago, better late than never! PF exercises can still help address a lot of concerns, no matter how long-term they have been!