Catheter

I have to self catheterise, as I have had my bladder removed & have internal reconstruction (neobladder). It was a little odd at first but soon straightforward & easy. The catheters are lubricated and quite thin, I think no worse (possibly better) than using a tampon. There are different varieties of catheter, also different diameters, so if you don't feel comfortable with the first type, try something different. They are all single use, disposable & there is a compact type easy to take out with you. I get my supplies free via NHS, by ordering online & about 4 weeks supply delivered at a time.

There are some videos (animations) available but I didn't find those especially helpful. Using a mirror can help at first but I only needed that a few times. It sounds daunting, but really it's no problem at all once you get used to it. Best wishes.

Hi teasswill

Thanks for your response. 

It just came as a blow this morning..... once I get used to the idea I'll be fine. Good to hear from someone who can tell me it's not so bad..  

Sending love 

Clare

My husband has had to do this on and off for years and while it may be simpler for a chap, it doesn't seem to bother him. Top tips use plenty of the proper lubricant, and drink plenty after to be sure of flushing through. I find cranberry tablets prevent UTI's following the catheterisation.

Hope that helps a little, 

Denby

Hi Denby

Thanks for the advice. 

The whole thing petrifies me. 

Sending love 

Clare

It's fear of the unknown - anticipation is usually worse than the reality. I've never had UTI since self cathing. It's a 'clean' procedure rather than a sterile one. Drinking plenty is always a good idea, to keep urine dilute. 

Had a district nurse visit to scan my bladder........

I am retaining 210ml. That was immediately after emptying bladder. If its 240ml they fit a catheter bag. Within 10 mins it would have been at that limit.

But as it wasn't she will speak to the GP and her managers to decide whether I have referral to incontinence clinic to be shown how to manually empty my bladder or whether I have the bag fitted. I may get a call she said to go A&E and have it fitted.
She suggested I call my nursing team and ask their advice which I have done and am waiting on a call back. They wont medicate with that much being retained. She called her manager while here and she suggested because of the location of the tumour I may have scar tissue over the urethra which would be blocking it and stopping me emptying.

Not sure why but I'm very emotional now so I've booked the afternoon off work and will take myself off somewhere to disract myself......

Sending love to all

Clare

 Hope it all goes well for you Clare xxx

Thank you 

Hi Clare, you’re having a tough time. Hope things get sorted very soon.

Luce xx

Hi Luce

Hubby has just measured 210ml in a jug..... its a lot more than I thought! No wonder I always feel like I'm going to wet myself! Ha ha......

Have to laugh....... I've run out of tears now.... I just keep thinking, I'm only 46! 

I have the grandson all to myself tomorrow and he's going to help me choose my new glasses, can't wait.

Sending love to all 

Clare