What is involved in self catheterization with a neobladder?

Self catheterization is not painful. Just need the catheter and medical examination gloves. I use pre-lubricated Cure Ultra catheters. I have to use catheters that have the coude tip. Doctor can tell you if you need the coude tip by inserting a catheter for you. Strongly recommend pre-lubricated because lubricating is a mess and a pain.

Good question, @jimelee108. In addition to the helpful response you already got from @moose63, I'm tagging @sepdvm @bajaman @mgb007 @steenrl who can share more about self-catheterization with a neobladder and related supplies, etc.

You may also be interested in this related discussion:
- Experiences with neobladder surgery for bladder cancer
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/bladder-cancer-and-neobladder-surgery/
Jimelee, have you been scheduled for surgery? How are you doing?

Hello @jimelee108
My husband had lots of postop issues with his neobladder but things have settled down now. He needs to catheterize 3-4 times daily as normal urination just does not empty the neobladder. He has had strictures at the urethral neobladder junction so they need him to use a larger diameter catheter to keep this open. Despite this, he finds catheterization nonpainful, nothing like the cystoscopies I am sure you have experienced. He also prefers the prelubricated catheters for ease of use and gets a script from his urologist to keep a nice supply on hand. He did try different catheters as some pass more easily than others and the urology department has been great about making recommendations. The prelubed ones have won him over. Lots of hand washing before to prevent infection, sterile gloves can be used as well. While it is a big change, for him it is better than an ostomy and much better than cancer.

Glad that postoperative challenges have subsided. I sure agree that having to use a catheter is much better than an ostomy or cancer! God bless.

I’ll be having bladder removed after chemo. Will your husband have to self catheterize himself daily forever, or is this temporary? I’m still trying to decide between ileal conduit or neobladder. I’m a male age 47.

No way to know if you will need to use a catheter until after surgery. My understanding is most people do need to use a catheter. I find using a catheter is no problem. I travel a lot and have been able to manage the process where ever I am. Hope and pray your surgery goes well and without complications.