Incontinence products questions: Pull-ups vs. diapers, pads and guards

@jefecepyical it mentions on the packaging not to flush theff1963 yes I have tried many products and brands andget a trashdo not flush wipeshave not found any that e completely worked good luck!

Thanks Surf! Super helpful info.

• Hadn't considered the washable version of bed pads....was thinking just of the disposable bed pads.
I might get some disposable bed pads....put one on my recliner and also if I end up staying at family member in Chicago the day I get out of the hospital (drive home is a few hours). I've also heard that some people who have continuing incontinence problems throw a disposable pad down on the hotel bed.
So, maybe I'll get that washable one for the home bed and a smaller quantity of the disposable pads ....and then hope I don't need them for long.

•Wow, great to hear about the pull-ups. I read that it's easier to change the tab version without taking off your pants...but guess it depends on how long you have to deal with total incontinence.

Thanks for all the info!

I'm not athletic anymore....but somewhat active. I do a high intensity short workout every morning (scientific seven minute workout) and do a 2.5 mile brisk walk with a weighted vest most days.

Guessing I can't figure it all out before it all hits the fan....but appreciate the good advice!

Haven't watched the video yet.....but I see it opens up with a section on "things that are normal after surgery....they don't seem like they are normal, but they are. "

Good to be prepared either way! I was debating mattress protector....but with the bed pad, maybe I don't need it?

@fritzo
Hmmm, maybe it is easier, I guess it depends of fitness level and age and all other things - you will know the best what could possibly be more comfortable for you personally. Also keep in mind that once you switch to pads you need to wear nice fitting underwear that will hold it all in place ( not boxer shorts).

I see that you asked about wipes - maybe that person referred to wipes that you might need in a period of initial recovery while you still have catheter in. You will need to keep meatus clean and wipes could be handy. Here is a video that explains many things very nicely :

@fritzo

It sounds that you are in pretty good shape @fritzo : )) and I understand that it all sounds overwhelming and scary but try to keep in mind that most people actually were surprised how fast recovery goes and how simple is actual care of catheter and bags etc etc. I was also panicking about my husband's surgery and read tons of articles and was totally OVER-prepared : /.
If you wish you can read my mini blog here : https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/surf-is-up/
It describes post op day-to-day and than week to week - I wrote it so new patients can read in detail my husband's experience with RARP. Skip chit-chat in between ; ).
Most people have no "fan" experience ; ), it usually goes smoothly and is usually just annoying period - just take it easy, I can not stress enough that part. Everybody is different and recovery is not competition, not even with yourself ;).

If you use "search option" you can find many stories here as well as many useful advice about what to buy or what to have handy and links to many useful videos. : )

BUT, the most important thing is to find the best surgeon that you can find - one that did thousands of RARP surgeries and follow all instructions to a T and you will most probably have very fast recovery. : )))

@fritzo

It sounds that you are in pretty good shape @fritzo : )) and I understand that it all sounds overwhelming and scary but try to keep in mind that most people actually were surprised how fast recovery goes and how simple is actual care of catheter and bags etc etc. I was also panicking about my husband's surgery and read tons of articles and was totally OVER-prepared : /.
If you wish you can read my mini blog here : https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/surf-is-up/
It describes post op day-to-day and than week to week - I wrote it so new patients can read in detail my husband's experience with RARP. Skip chit-chat in between ; ).
Most people have no "fan" experience ; ), it usually goes smoothly and is usually just annoying period - just take it easy, I can not stress enough that part. Everybody is different and recovery is not competition, not even with yourself ;).

If you use "search option" you can find many stories here as well as many useful advice about what to buy or what to have handy and links to many useful videos. : )

BUT, the most important thing is to find the best surgeon that you can find - one that did thousands of RARP surgeries and follow all instructions to a T and you will most probably have very fast recovery. : )))

@surftohealth88

Ok, I read your diary post and it is so incredibly helpful. I commented there, but I'll repeat those thoughts here...

You are a treasure to all of us. Yes, your husband is very fortunate to have you by his side. But, so we are all. Thank you and blessings on your journey!