TVT-Bladder infections

I am sooo discouraged. I had a hyst and tvt almost 8 months ago. Other than getting the hormones under control, the hyst was uncomplicated. The TVT however is another story. First I had to self-cath for over 2 months and had to take Macrobid every day to prevent infection. Started peeing on my own, stopped the Macrobid and it has been one infection after another and of course using Macrobid. Now the doctor has me on a course of Macrobid (1 a day) for 3 months and I STILL got an infection. I didn't bother going back with a sample, I am totally disgusted and discouraged. I just doubled up on the pills for a week! I am concerned, what is this antibiotic doing to my system? It must be hard of a person and I am so tired and not sure what to blame it on. I also read somewhere that some people take one Macrobid after sex as a precaution. That doesn't sound so bad as that would only be once a week (maybe). But one every day for 3 months??? And it still didn't work. I don't have vaginal dryness as I am on estrogen and also Vagifem. I have tried cranberry juice and lots of water. Any other suggestions? The doctor said it was becuase I had to use the catheter for so long and bacteria was introduced and it is hard to get rid of. I hope he knows what the heck is he is talking about!!!
Pat

I took Macrobid for three months and still got an infection. The combination of vaginal estrogen, Bextra for pelvic inflamation (I don't think they use bextra much any more) and two rounds of Cipro finally got rid of my ever present UTI. Macrobid doesn't cure every UTI but I'm beginning to think it is the first med the prescribe You may need to see a urologist and have a sample grow in the lab so they can pin point the type of bacteria it is. This way, the right meds can be given. I hope you find a solution soon!!

thanks Karlene. I just feel like I can't deal with this any more, something has to give.

Hi Pateo,
I too had a TVT sling and left the hospital with a strep type bladder infection that took a little over a month to cure. I did the self cathing also. Because I am allergic to the (pene) cillan class of drugs, I was prescribed Levaquin twice. It finally worked! Maybe ask your doc about trying it? I still drink cranberry juice etc...and I am sure it helps. Good luck!!
Amber