You may have an enlarged prostate. Other symptoms would include weak urine stream, dribbling, difficulty starting a stream, increased frequency of urination (especially at night), incomplete bladder emptying, possible pain/burning that can be in the tip of the penis or radiate from the hip. If this continues to be an issue go see your doctor as there are several reasons a prostate can be enlarged and you would need workup for an infection. Also consider applying upward pressure (a few times after urinating) to the perineum (area between testicles and anus) this will push out any urine that remains in the urethra as a result of the prostate clamping down on the urethra. As men grow older the prostate continues to grow. The vast majority of men will have enlarged prostate in their 70s, however, the first phase of growth is in the 20s and some do have symptoms (albeit rare) during that phase.
Although doctors don’t know why, many men display a small (not deadly) enlargement of their prostate gland as they grow older. This is true especially above 40, and it always occurs 100% over 80 years of age.
Now, this enlarged prostate gland pushes on the urethra. The urethra is the “tube” connecting the bladder (the “bag” where urine is stored) to your penis. The push might cause irritation to the bladder. The bladder then becomes more active, leading to leaks of urine and the need to urinate more often.
One could also get cancer (rare below 40 yrs), where the enlargement is not normal.
It’s a pretty common problem that’s partially due to the poor design of the male urinary tract, partially due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, and possibly partially caused by an enlarged prostate.
Basically, even if you empty your bladder, there’s still pee in the pipe. Think of it like a hose where, even once the tap is turned off, there’s still water inside the hose, unless gravity can get it out. If your pelvic floor muscles are strong and in good condition, they can help. As we get older, or muscles become weaker, especially if we have sedentary jobs, and they stop doing as good a job squeezing the pee out, so it comes out on its own time.
Sitting down to pee might help, as will using some toilet paper to catch stray drips.
Keeping your abdominal core in good condition might also help. This isn’t just abs, though. This is the deep muscles; people with penises can do Kegel exercises too.
As for the enlarged prostate, you’ll need to talk to a GP and maybe a urologist.
According to my husband who just had treatment for prostate cancer, there are several reasons. As mentioned enlarged prostate which tends to occur as you get older, excess weight, diabetes, lack of sphincter control. He says kegel exercises become essential as you age. ( For the 5 yr olds) Normally women are told to do kegels to help with urine control, to strengthen the pelvic floor in preparation for childbirth and to make orgasms stronger. But men can benefit as well.. A kegel is performed by clenching and releasing the muscles located in pelvic floor that you normally would use to stop urine mid-flow while urinating, or that you use to hold in a fart. Once you’ve identified your pelvic floor muscles, you can do the exercises in any position, although you might find it easiest to do them lying down at first.
Perfect your technique. Tighten your pelvic floor muscles, hold the contraction for three seconds, and then relax for three seconds. Try it a few times in a row. When your muscles get stronger, try doing Kegel exercises while sitting, standing or walking.
Maintain your focus. For best results, focus on tightening only your pelvic floor muscles. Be careful not to flex the muscles in your abdomen, thighs or buttocks. Avoid holding your breath. Instead, breathe freely during the exercises.
Repeat 3 times a day. Aim for at least three sets of 10 repetitions a day.
Good luck!
Latest Answers