Using intermittent catheterisation is the preferred treatment when you are not able to empty your bladder normally. Besides catheterising 4-6 times a day, you should consider the following options for bladder management. If you are not completely dependent on catheters, there are ways to exercise the bladder:
Tips for optimal bladder management
Pelvic floor exercises
Pelvic floor exercises or kegels are designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to help reduce urinary incontinence. Pelvic floor exercises are equally relevant for women and men. Do it when you are waiting in line, when you watch TV, read a book, in the shower or whenever you can fit it into your daily life. You will need to do the exercises daily and it may take several months before you see a significant improvement.
Bladder retraining
Some people are able to retrain the bladder to help reduce urinary incontinence, by aiming to gradually stretch the bladder so that it can hold larger volumes of urine. Scheduling bathroom visits and delaying urination could be part of that technique. Ask your nurse or doctor if bladder retraining is relevant for you. Bladder retraining can be combined with using a bladder diary. You can download a scheme here or create your own.
Lifestyle changes
Timing fluid intake at certain times can also be helpful so the need to urinate is more convenient and doesn’t coincide with going out or sleeping at night, but still keep in mind that you need to drink around 1.5–2 litres of fluid a day.
Medication
Drugs are prescribed for all types of bladder issues. Talk to your doctor regarding the use of medication.