What is a bladder installation?
A bladder installation is inserted into the bladder to manage many different health issues. Often referred to as a “wash” or a “bath”, the installation is inserted via a catheter tube. The solution stays in the bladder for a short period of time and is then released.


Am I a good candidate for a bladder installation?
A bladder installation is usually recommended if you have a condition called interstitial cystitis (IC). This chronic condition causes the bladder and/or urethra to become inflamed. It is caused by nerves miscommunicating with the brain and has similar symptoms to a urinary tract infection (UTI). You might also be a suitable candidate for a bladder installation if you have a chronic UTI that hasn’t been cured by typical means such as antibiotics, or other conditions that impact on your bladder’s function.
You will need to have a series of treatments – typically one every week or fortnight for around six to eight weeks.


Recovery from bladder installation
There is little downtime required after having a bladder installation or bath. Therefore, it is an ideal treatment if you are in need of a different option to those you have already tried. You may need to take it easy for a few hours after receiving bladder installation treatments, as you may feel a very slight discomfort.
A bladder installation is unlikely to result in any side effects. Therefore, it doesn’t require any aftercare. The main side effect that patients note is a garlic type smell in the few days following treatment. This is nothing to worry about and should subside fairly quickly. Sometimes, a urogynaecologist may add medicines such as Herapin to your bladder bath. This can cause some side effects after use, but again this is rare. Drink lots of water after treatment, as with any medication, and ensure that you stay hydrated.
Get in touch
Cheryl Wood
info@lancashiregynaecologist.co.uk
Call
Appointments Department
Spire Fylde Coast Hospital
St Walburgas road
Blackpool
FY3 8BP