Bladder Botox for overactive bladder
bladder Botox · botulinum toxin bladder injections · overactive bladder treatment · bladder injections
Using a thin camera, the doctor gives several injections into the bladder wall. The bladder calms down, and urges come less often.
For an overactive bladder, when pills and exercises have not helped.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 20 to 40 minutes; it starts working in 1 to 2 weeks and usually lasts several months
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Urine test. Before the procedure, your urine is usually checked for infection.
- Numbing. Usually local numbing, sometimes anesthesia. If you have anesthesia, the clinic will tell you when to stop eating and drinking.
- Antibiotic. Sometimes the doctor prescribes an antibiotic to prevent infection. Take it as directed.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Your referral and urine test
- A list of your medicines
- Your bladder diary, if you kept one
How it goes
- You lie on the exam chair
- A numbing gel is put into the urethra
- A thin camera is passed into the bladder
- Through it, several injections are given into the bladder wall
- The camera is removed, and you rest
- Before you leave, the staff check that you can pee
What you'll feel
- Pressure and urges during the procedure
- You feel the injections. It is usually bearable
- Burning when you pee may happen for the first few days
Afterwards
- Drink as usual. For the first few days, your urine may be pinkish
- Sometimes the bladder empties less well. Your doctor will tell you how to check
- A follow-up visit in a few weeks
- When the effect wears off, the procedure can be repeated. The doctor decides
Contact a doctor straight away if
- You cannot pee, or your bladder feels full: call the clinic
- A fever over 38°C or severe pain
- Muscle weakness, or trouble swallowing or breathing: call emergency services
Common questions
Is this the same Botox used for wrinkles?
The active ingredient is the same, but the dose and place are different. This is a medical treatment.
How long does it last?
Usually several months. When the urges come back, the doctor will decide whether to repeat it.