BCG#1

Hi James,

Certainly sounds like you've been through a lot. 

The catheter used for the BCG is smaller than the ones used during the TURBTs, which was a relief for me for sure.

I found the instillation of the catheter not too bad, just a little discomfort. Although it's never going to be a great experience.

The catheter is only kept in for a short while, whilst they install the BCG and is removed as soon as it's installed.

They recommend that you don't drink for a couple of hour's before your appointment. This is to help you keep the BCG in for the 2 hours.

Some people do have paracetamol beforehand. Although I've not done this.

Also some hospital's keep you in for the two hours and some let you leave as soon as the BCG is inserted. 

Overall the experience for me wasn't too bad. The effects can differ for each person of course.

I've had 18 instillations, but I'm having a longer break before my 19th due to inflammation.

Anyhow I wish you all the best and keep us posted.

Trevor 

Agree with everything BFG has said.

I would add, to make sure you drink lots after the two hours to flush it from your system.

Would suggest keeping off the caffeine and alcohol, and drink lemon barley water. The barley is said to have a calming effect on the bladder, and the Robinsons lemon variety has more of it ... ~4% from memory. The other fruit ones I have seen are only ~1% barley.

very best of luck with your bcg. I agree with all the above from BFG and tortoise. Reactions are individual , also my experience wont be the same as yours . If you click on my name i have posted each step of the past 2 and a half years. It may help answer some questions. I am due to have number 16 next tuesday.

Keep in touch and let us know how you get on.

Best of luck for next Tuesday.

Two and a half years! Doesn't time fly....

Thanks Trevor, its quite shocking how quickly thats gone by ! Take care friend x

Hi Angela hope number 16 Bcg went OK. I have done it, number 27 today!!!!!

Cannot tell you how pleased that I have completed them all. I just hope my calculations are correct as hospital don't seem to know with out going all back through the notes. 

Three years of it. You know what a drain it is, now a flexi in December and then 6 monthly flexi, s so it's never over but at least the maintenance treatment is done. 

Wishing you well and hope you continue to get through yours OK. 

Much love Tracey xx

Oh Tracey, that is fantastic, well done to you. You are an absolute legend ! 27 !!really happy for you . I was feeling a bit anxious being on this blessed roller coaster, but your news has inspired me truly. Huge celebrations I hope. I shall raise a glass to you at the weekend. Proud of you friend . sending you a big hug xx

Congrats Tracey. 3 years BCG definitely is hard work but if you stay all clear it will be worth it! I did 27 doses too and past 4 years all clear. Like you said it is never over but how wonderful is every clear day? I’ve learned to celebrate every healthy moment, I hope you will have many cancer free years ahead. Hx  

Hero , I didnt know you had completed 27 !! Another legend !! this is so uplifting to hear , thankyou so much . I shall include you in my at the weekend . sending you love xx

Hi Angela, my urology team offered me chance to stop at dose 18 because of current thinking ref BCG bladder inflammation, but since I got a reoccurrence every year for first 3 years of treatments I chose to plod on. My first all clear year was after my final 27th dose!! This morning off for my annual cystoscopy on what would have been my mum's 111th birthday, fingers crossed everybody please