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