Pelvic Pain Incontinence

Pelvic pain and/or incontinence is a common side effect of cancer treatment. Incontinence is the inability to control the bladder. It occurs in men and women. It may last for a short or long time, and range from mild to severe.

Symptoms of a Urinary Problem

• Bladder cramps or other discomfort in the pelvic area
• Blood in the urine
• Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
• Difficulty getting urine to start flowing
• Feeling you need to urinate often
• Leaking a small amount of urine when you sneeze or cough
• Pain or burning feeling when you urinate

Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection

• Fever of a 100.5°F or higher, with chills and fatigue
• Cloudy or red urine
• Difficulty urinating or being unable to urinate
• Pain in your back or abdomen
• Pain or burning feeling when you urinate

Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

Prevent or Manage Urinary Problems

• Check with your nurse before using creams or lotion near your genitals
• Drink at least 8 cups of fluid each day so your urine is light yellow or clear; caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods and tobacco use can make bladder problems worse
• Learn how to use a catheter safely
• Take showers instead of baths
• Use the bathroom often
• Wash your catheter with warm soap and water after each use (if reusable); rinse well
• Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants

Manage Incontinence

• Avoid foods and drinks that may irritate your bladder such as dairy products, citrus fruits, sugar, chocolate, soda and tea
• Limit how much you drink, especially coffee and alcohol
• Lose extra weigh to relieve pressure on your bladder
• Quit smoking
• Use the bathroom before bedtime
• Wear a pad in your underwear

Medical options for treating incontinence include:

• Bladder training
• Medical devices, such as a urethral insert
• Medication
• Occupational therapy