Prostate Restored
Photo by Connor Danylenko Pexels Logo Photo: Connor Danylenko

Is a catheter needed after a cystoscopy?

For a variety of reasons, urinary retention (inability to urinate) can occur after cystoscopy. This will generally require the placement of a catheter to drain the bladder. Swelling caused by the procedure can obstruct the flow of urine.

Why do moms wear diapers after birth?
Why do moms wear diapers after birth?

For anyone who doesn't know, after birth, whether it's a C-section or vaginal birth, there's a lot of blood. For some new moms, this bleeding is...

Read More »
Do all men get BPH?
Do all men get BPH?

Prostate enlargement happens to almost all men as they get older. An enlarged prostate is often called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is...

Read More »

What are the Complications of Cystoscopy? When Should I Call the Doctor?

Do not hesitate to call your doctor if you experience problems after the procedure. It is common to experience some burning with urination, but this should go away quickly. You may also see blood in the urine off and on for a couple of weeks. You need to call your doctor if you experience fever, excessive bleeding, urinary retention, or testicular pain. At times, some of these situations could be managed at home, but frequently will require immediate evaluation. Fever after an operation such as cystoscopy can signal the onset of infection. Most often, either the urine or the kidneys or both will become infected. Urinary burning and frequency of urination are common symptoms of urinary tract infections. Some people may have only fever and vomiting. Pneumonia is a less frequent source of fever. Thrombophlebitis, an infection of the vein used for IV access during surgery, can also occur. Your doctor needs to be notified immediately if you develop a fever, even if you are already taking antibiotics. If the office is closed, you will frequently be referred to the Emergency Department for an evaluation. Bleeding after cystoscopy is common. When you notice bleeding, rest and increase your fluid intake (unless you have a medical condition in which you should not). Notify your doctor at once if you feel that you are experiencing too much bleeding. An Emergency Department visit is generally necessary if your urine becomes so bloody that you could not read a newspaper through it or if you are passing blood clots in the urine. Your bladder may need to be washed out to remove the clots. You may need to be hospitalized to control the bleeding. Blood clots can block the flow of urine, causing urinary retention. Acute urinary retention is a medical emergency. You should see your doctor or go to the Emergency Department. Do not wait long for your doctor to call you back because this condition can continue to become increasingly uncomfortable until the bladder is drained with a catheter. Your doctor should be notified immediately if you experience testicular pain and swelling. You will likely need to be evaluated by a physician. Although this will usually reveal testicular inflammation or infection, torsion (a twisting of the testicle) needs to be ruled out.

Is watermelon high in zinc?
Is watermelon high in zinc?

Watermelon contains a high amount of zinc which is important for the male reproductive system. Dec 14, 2022

Read More »
Is it OK to take Flomax every day?
Is it OK to take Flomax every day?

Flomax may be used to improve urine flow in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also referred to as an enlarged prostate gland. Flomax is...

Read More »

How do I relax before a cystoscopy?

Meditation is one tool that can help with the pain or anxiety of a cystoscopy. With practice, you can learn to calm the mind and center yourself while the procedure is being performed. Some find breathing exercises tremendously helpful. Some listen to music or focus their attention on watching the monitor.

Remember to relax

It can be a challenge trying to feel comfortable when something may be causing discomfort. Meditation is one tool that can help with the pain or anxiety of a cystoscopy. With practice, you can learn to calm the mind and center yourself while the procedure is being performed. Some find breathing exercises tremendously helpful. Some listen to music or focus their attention on watching the monitor. Then there are others who come up with creative ways to distract themselves. Whatever technique you choose, you may want to give it a try a time or two before your scheduled cystoscopy. That way you will have some familiarity before your scheduled procedure.

Can twins have different dads?
Can twins have different dads?

But you may be left wondering: Can twins have different fathers? The answer is yes, but only in cases in which they're fraternal, as identical...

Read More »
What foods heal the gut lining?
What foods heal the gut lining?

To combat leaky gut, eat foods that promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, including fruits, cultured dairy products, healthy fats, lean...

Read More »
Is green tea good for prostatitis?
Is green tea good for prostatitis?

Green tea contains antioxidants that reduce the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone that promotes the growth of the prostate. A...

Read More »
Can you take too much ginger and turmeric?
Can you take too much ginger and turmeric?

Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider before supplementing and decrease your dosage if you notice any side effects. Ginger may decrease...

Read More »