Urinary retention

I have low grade prostate cancer on active surveillance . Now I have chronic Urinary retention and have been told my bladder has enlarged to the point where muscles don't work...no cure (?) Just started self catheterization. My focus is now on drinking 2 litres a day and measuring urine output. Is anyone else out there in a similar position of high anxiety ...I dread the moment when I have to catherize myself.My life is on hold...

  • Hello, and thanks for your post,

    It is always difficult getting used to something new but I am sure that when you have to start catheterising yourself you will get used to it. 

    Once you have got the hang of it there is no reason why you can't lead a very normal life. Hopefully, others will come forward with their experiences. You have posted in 'Ask the Nurses' but if you post on another thread or start your own you may find that you get more responses. Do share how you are feeling with the health professionals that are looking after you. I am sure they would make sure that you knew exactly what you were doing before you started doing the procedure yourself.

    There is some information written by the NHS on self-catheterisation which you can see here 

    There is more information written by the bowel and bladder community which you can see here

    Do continue to keep drinking two litres a day.

    I wish you all the best,

    Catherine