Can Chemotherapy Cause Urinary Incontinence?
Chemotherapy can be a life-saving treatment option for people diagnosed with cancer. Although chemo saves lives there is no denying that it also comes with a variety of side effects that have a tremendous impact on the lives of those undergoing treatments. Chemotherapy side effects impact everyone differently, however, there are many common side effects that are shared by cancer patients. At V Lounge, some of our patients want to know, can chemotherapy cause urinary incontinence?
Talking about urinary incontinence can feel embarrassing and many people would rather skip talking about it. So, it’s no surprise that urinary incontinence could become an unexpected symptom of chemotherapy. At V Lounge, we are changing the conversation surrounding bladder leaks and want you to know it's ok to talk about pee! In this post, we break down the basics of urinary incontinence and chemotherapy. However, we always suggest directing your concerns surrounding leaks and chemotherapy to your oncologist if you are currently undergoing chemotherapy.
How Does Chemotherapy Affect Urinary Incontinence?
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, chemotherapy can cause issues with urinary incontinence for some people. This can be due to some chemo medications causing nerve damage to areas that control the bladder. Additionally, chemo may put extra stress on the pelvic floor if it is causing nausea and vomiting. Hormone changes may also play a role in urinary incontinence of those who are undergoing chemotherapy treatments. Urinary incontinence may not be a side effect for all people receiving chemotherapy, but it may become an issue for some, especially for those who may already have a weak pelvic floor.
Can I Treat Chemo Related Urinary Incontinence?
If you are currently receiving chemotherapy, you should always speak with your oncologist and medical team before starting any kind of urinary incontinence treatment. Your care team is armed with information and support to help you through this period of time and knows your medical situation best. If you have finished chemotherapy, options such as pelvic floor physiotherapy or Emsella® treatments could be helpful in helping you regain continence.
What Else Can I Do to Stop Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence happens for a variety of reasons beyond chemotherapy. When bladder leaks are related to stress or urge incontinence, there are ways you can try to alleviate symptoms without undergoing more formal treatment. If you are suffering from bladder leaks but aren’t currently able to obtain treatment for urinary incontinence, the following tips may be helpful.
Practice diaphragmatic breathing
Do a pelvic squeeze to engage your pelvic floor if you feel a cough or sneeze coming
Drink enough water and ensure you empty your bladder whenever you need to
Eat foods rich in fibre to support bowel health and reduce constipation
Try yoga or Pilates to promote pelvic floor strength
Do Kegels when you can, see our guide to an effective Kegel to ensure you are targeting the pelvic floor
Undergoing cancer treatments is a lot for anyone to endure, both physically and mentally. Urinary incontinence may become a part of your journey as you obtain the life-saving treatment you need. At V Lounge, we want you to know you aren’t alone. If you feel that Emsella® may be the right treatment option for you, we are always here to support you. Consider booking a free demo to learn more about how Emsella® can help you regain your continence.
