incontinence clamps (penile clamps) to control male urinary incontinence

by Diane K. Newman, RNC, MSN, CRNP, FAAN

A device called a penile clamp is used in controlling male urinary incontinence. An incontinence clamp is placed around the penis to prevent urine leakage.

After prostate surgery, men often use these clamps to stop continuous urine leakage. The clamp is put halfway down the shaft of the penis and then tightened to compress the urethra.

Several types of penile clamps are available but many problems such as skin breakdown, swelling, strictures (scarring) can occur inside of the urethra if they are left in place too long.

The Cunningham Clamp is the one most often used. The inside of the clamp has a flexible part made of soft foam that conforms to fit your penis. The outside is made of metal with several notches on the side to adjust the tightness.

The Dribblestop® Male Urinary Incontinence Clamp is an external penile clamp that gently applies pressure to the top of the penis, as well as the urethra on the underside to effectively control bladder leakage. The entire penile clamp is made of lightweight plastic and high quality, medically approved foam that does not absorb liquid. The result is a soft, natural feel—this penile clamp is so small and comfortable, (3 inches long by 1/2 inch wide) you won't even notice it's there!

The breakthrough ActiCuf™ is a disposable, undetectable pouch designed to help men manage light to moderate urinary incontinence. When placed on the penis, the padded closure gently presses down on the urethra to control urinary flow acting as a penile clamp. Any leakage is immediately asborbed by the ActiCuf so you can take charge of your day.

CAUTION: If you use penile clamps, they must be taken off at least every 1 to 2 hours so you can urinate. If you don't, the bladder becomes full (over distension) and can cause some bladder problems and severe infections. I always teach men how to use these clamps and give instructions. They can cause problems such as prolonged compression of the penis that can lead to urethral stricture, decreased blood flow to the penis causing necrosis of the penis, or skin breakdown.

When used properly, though, penile clamps can help men manage male urinary incontinence.

See also:

Posted December 2006
Updated August 2009

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