Catheter

I'm new to the Hyster Sisters, not sure on how to search, but, earlier someone posted some info on catheters after surgery. I'm extremely nervous about the surgery (scheduled it today for 10/1/01), anesthesia, and everything about the hyst. I know they put that in while you're asleep, does it help as far as bladder spasms? More info please.

Hi Smitty!!
Welcome to Hystersisters!! You will find a great deal of information and support here.

Its very normal to be nervous, but you will see many times here the ladies saying the waiting is the worst part, and it really is true!!
You can do a search by just clicking on the little search button at the top right side of the screen here and when the next screen comes up on the left side, you can type in the keyword "catheter" and it will bring up all the past discussions on this. Its discussed quite often so I am sure you will find a great deal of helpful information in your search results, in addition to the replies you will get here.

I didn't mind the catheter at all. Its a blessing really as it saves from having to get up that first 24 hours, and you don't even notice its there. I didn't feel it at all when they took it out either.

Best of luck with your surgery, and keep reading and posting any questions and we will do our best to help you!
Hugs,
Maria

I know that the idea of the catheter sounds awful...but it really isn't (usually). I had difficulty urinating after they removed the catheter and had to be catheterized three more times! Those times, I was VERY awake and it didn't really hurt at all! In fact, I needed the relief so much that I was just about begging for it! Keep searching for more info...just thought I'd relay my experience(s)! It really isn't bad at all...and believe us...the waiting IS the hardest part!

Wishing you well. Sue

Hi Smitty,

I agree with everyone else. Had my TAH/BSO last Tuesday, 9/4/01. The catheter was no big deal. Didn't hurt going in or coming out. I thought I might have to have one for several days after I got home (since I also had bladder surgery), but I didn't. I wouldn't have minded, though. It helps your body a lot--to keep from constantly getting up and down. Try to focus on the bigger picture of just getting through this and getting well! You'll do great!

Shirley

Hi Smitty, My cath was put in while I was asleep. I worried and worried about the cath. I had never had one before and didn't know what to expect. I was back in my room after surgery at about 1:30 and at 8:30 that evening, the nurse came in to try to get me up for the first time to try to walk around. My brain was saying no, but I had read it would help so much that I said sure, let's try it. As she prepared my I.V. pole for the trip out of the bed, I realized, then remembered for the first time, that I had the cath. She had to move it from under the bed, to the I.V. pole so it could travel with me. That is how much the cath will bother you the first day. That night, I was able to rest without getting up to pee. The next morning the nurse came in and removed it. Again, I didn't really feel it at all, she just told me to relax and it was out before I knew it. The next night I really missed it since I ended up having to get up and go to the bathroom again. I had the leg things on that massage your legs and had to be unhooked from them before heading to the bathroom. During the day, hubby unhooked them for me, but I had to call the nurse because I couldn't reach them to unhook them. You will find many things to stress out about, and once it's done, you will wonder why you did. Just try to stay calm. I know that's easier said from the other side, but it's true. It will all be fine. Good Luck

I have what may be a really dumb question, but I do not know the answer. Where does the urine go when you have a catheter?

Traci

Traci, No question is dumb unless you don't ask it!
The catheter is connected to a bag that catches all the urine. So no need to worry-the nurses will dump it for you when it gets too full!
Love Peanut