Catheters

I have read several posts from women who have had bladder repair with their hysterectomies saying they came home with catheters. Is this the norm and if so what is it like. I have been catheterized a couple of times for clean specimens and for tests but never had to wear one. Do you have to catheterize yourself several times a day or do wear one continuously with a collection bag. What is the average amount of time ? Sorry I am so unknowing in this area. I have never had surgery or even any serious illness. I just seem to have my innards trying to escape southward. Just curious since since this will be a part of my surgery. Thanks

Hi Kelle,

I didn't have any bladder repair, my catheter was only in for 24 hours. I'm sure there will be someone along who can answer your question for you. In the meantime you may want to click on the search button at the top right of the page, type in "catheter" and you will get a list of threads that have mentioned catheters. That may help you somewhat.

Best wishes!

I had a bladder sling along with my LAVH on 1/22. I came home with a catheter in for another week. Went to the dr to have it removed. No problems peeing for me. I drink 16 oz. of fluid an hour so all was flowing well. Good luck. Cindy

Hi again,

Here is a link to a thread that may give you some more answers: http://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/sho...threadid=80860

Hope this helps!

Don't feel bad about not knowing, Kelle. When my doctor told me that I'd probably have to learn to "cath" myself at home, I almost fainted at the thought of it! I've since been assured that most likely I'll just need to empty the bag, keep it clean, etc...

Hi - I decided to have a bladder support procedure done along with my hyst - see my post on 2/5. I was also surprised to hear about needing a catheter for a week. I havn't had my preop visit with the urologist yet so I don't know alot about it.

Other women seem to say it's not too big a deal - so that really helps, but I'm not looking forward to it! I guess we'll have to keep in touch and help each other get through this!

Michelle

I didn't have a bladder suspension but the surgeon 'nicked' my bladder during my TVH/BSO last week. I came home with a Foley catheter which had been inserted during the surgery, a long tube, and a collection bag which is easy to empty and hasn't really required any special attention. In some ways it has been easier since I haven't had to get up to go to the bathroom!!!

My doctor has ordered a cystogram (I think that's the test's name) before my appt. tomorrow. They will inject dye into the catheter and do an x-ray. If the dye doesn't leak into my abdominal cavity, then they will assume the bladder repair was effective and they'll remove the catheter at my one week appointment.

From what I've observed, you have no significant need to worry. Just concentrate on drinking a lot, walking a little (often) and resting (more than I have and I'm paying for it!)

Lynn

Thanks for all the help and the links. I am still not real excited about the catheter, but less scared.