Bladder instillation
bladder instillation · intravesical therapy · bladder wash with medicine · medicine into the bladder
The doctor puts medicine straight into the bladder through a thin catheter. It works on the bladder wall from the inside.
For chronic bladder inflammation, some types of bladder pain, and to prevent recurrence after treatment of bladder tumors.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 10 to 15 minutes; the medicine stays in the bladder for 30 minutes to 2 hours, as your doctor says
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Drinking. You are usually asked to drink less for a few hours before, so the medicine stays in longer. Check with the clinic.
- Bladder. Pee before the procedure.
- Course. It is usually a course of several sessions. Check the schedule.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID
- A pad or spare underwear
How it goes
- You pee and lie on your back on the couch
- The genital area is cleaned with antiseptic
- A numbing gel is put into the urethra
- A thin catheter is inserted
- The medicine is poured in through the catheter
- The catheter is removed, and the medicine stays in the bladder for the time your doctor says
What you'll feel
- An unpleasant feeling as the catheter goes in
- An urge to pee while the medicine is in
- Mild burning after the procedure
Afterwards
- Pee when your doctor allows
- After that, drink more water, unless your doctor says otherwise
- Burning and frequent urges on the first day can happen
- Some medicines need special hygiene afterward. Your doctor will explain
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F) or chills
- You cannot pee
- A lot of blood in your urine
Common questions
Does it hurt?
Usually not. The catheter is thin, and a numbing gel is used. It can be unpleasant.
How many sessions are needed?
Usually a course of several. Your doctor will decide how many.