Voiding issues

Ouch 😕

Try not to worry too much, it’s very early and we all heal at our own pace.

Have a word with the doctor or nurse looking after you to see if there’s anything they can give you or do to help.

I was quite down in first couple of days, hooked up to Oxygen, catheter, cannula, could hardly move.

But once free to move and be mobile I felt a lot better xxxx

I was in hospital for three days following my posterior and anterior repairs, plus a vaginal hysterectomy. I had a catheter for two days I think. I was like you and couldn’t empty my bladder fully for a while, however much I drank! You’ve had major surgery, such early days, I hope it settles down for you but it is very common. 

Next time you try,  try squirting your genitals with warm water while trying to urinate. If the amount in the peri bottle is measured and you're going in a "hat" they can just subtract the water volume from your total volume. This was the only way I was able to pee for several days and I was terrified of getting re-catheterized bc it HURT! It really works.

Take advantage of the extra care. I was sent home the same day as surgery - and was not prepared. I expected notable progress like after my hysterectomy 12 years ago. Nothing of the kind. The rectocele is the worst. After 7 days I still feel like I am sitting on a cactus. Today was my first BM - and it was painful - and scary since everyone says not to strain. Extra time with a catheter can help you focus on adjusting to recovery. I was peeing on my own- trying to control it when I would have been better off just resting a day or 2.

I had similar issues after my op 2 years ago 😥 when you go for a wee and think you’re finished try standing up and swivelling as though you’re doing the Hula hoop, try again and you’ll wee quite a bit more....worked for me, that’s what got me home!!!

Hi Kym

I had cysto and recto plus tvt. 10 weeks ago. I had catheter out after 24 hours. The urethra and bladder is swollen so takes some days to settle down.  I found I couldn’t pee because I couldn’t relax with pain in the area. Physio said lean forward, lift your heels up off the floor and let your tummy relax or sag. This relaxes pf muscles. 

Double voiding, as in standing up again and having a bit of a wiggle was also suggested to me.

Try not to despair, It will all come together just need to relax and be patient. Day 2 is very early. 

Make sure you start on the stool softeners now (ask for them) as you want your BM to go well and BM may not start for 4 days.

Drink lots of water better still pear juice.

Hope this helps Kym

We all understand how you are feeling

Peta