Bladder Problems

It's been quite awhile since I've posted, but now I'm turning again to you ladies and asking for help.

I had a TAH (kept ovaries) in March of 2001. I've had problems with incontinence since the end of the summer. My doctor wanted to hold off on doing anything. Well, I'm still having problems. I did end up having to start HRT, I think my ovaries quit on me. The incontinence improved slightly once I began estrogen, but I'm still having problems, mainly leaking and I don't even feel it, just all of a sudden there's a feeling of dampness. I started off with pantiliners, went to heavier pads and am now wearing Poise. Sigh, I thought I was done with pads. I also have a feeling of frequency. When I have to go, I have to go NOW! It's odd, but when I'm laying down, I feel just fine. Sitting or standing is when I have the problems, especially standing up after I've been sitting for awhile. I have to make a beeline for the bathroom.

I've gone back to the doctor and she said my bladder had dropped somewhat and wants me to go in for an ultrasound to make sure there's no mass growing that might be pressing on my bladder. I'm not looking forward to the ultrasound. I have a hard enough time holding it in, I can't imagine having to drink all that liquid and not being able to go to the bathroom!

I also have an appointment scheduled with a urologist. What I'd like to know - - what kind of tests or exam can I expect from the urologist? I've never visited one before and I'm not sure what to expect. Can anyone who had similar problems fill me in on their experiences?

Thanks so much for your help.


Cindy

Hi Cindy
I'm racking my brains for the right words for these tests. I think you mean Urodynamics or something that sounds like that.
and in plain terms is called a Bladder function test. I've had two of these. the last one I found to be a great improvement on the first one I had many years ago. Anyway the last one I had was about 2 years ago and I had to drink loads of water and then at a given time I was allowed on the loo. Then later lying on a type of table I had to say when I had the urgency to go again. Problem for me with this was I was still having the urge to go from the last time after holding on for so long. And all along there was this American male voice saying to me " Do you feel you are going to .......... leak now" or words to that effect (I'm in England) I couldn't help smiling.
Pm me if you need further details on the test.
April

helloooooch Cindy----i just had the urodynamic test done on May 2nd. they are checking to see what kind of problem you are having ---according to the problem they will choose a procedure to repair it. i go on may 30th and have the cystocope done--to confirm--no internal damage/cancer. good luck---- janice72