miami62 my experience was challenging but not horrible. Going home with a catheter is zero fun and took me several days to even look at it. Use the lidocaine cream. It will help. I wore over sized sweat pants and got by ok with those. I did get out and walk outside a few times with the bag that attaches to an ankle. Post-catheter I used pads for awhile just to avoid any dribbles. Moving the wrong way while seated or watching a comedy special always produced and the small pads helped avoid multiple clothing changes. I stayed close to the house for about three weeks post surgery. After that time I felt comfortable enough going out without a pad but I still wore one. Eventually I ditched the pad. I felt I had enough control to go without. I had surgery in Oct. of '21 and I really have no incontinence at all. I'm 58 and was reasonably fit before my surgery.

Best of luck to you. Listen to your body and be patient with yourself. You'll get through it just fine.