Common concerns during recovery

Neobladder Incontinence

Urine leakage is common right after surgery but gets better over time. Leaks may happen during physical activity and are more common at night when pelvic muscles are relaxed.

To avoid nighttime leaks:

  • Stop drinking fluids 2 hours before bedtime.

  • Empty your neobladder right before going to bed.

  • Set alarms during the night to wake up and empty the bladder.

  • Wear adult diapers or pads if needed.

Lack of energy and lost sleep

Many patients have low energy (fatigue) and difficulty sleeping after bladder removal. As you heal, sleep problems will improve.

What can you do about fatigue and sleep problems? 

Focusing on your diet and exercise can help. For example, you could try to take daily walks, drink nutrition/protein shakes, or have small, frequent meals throughout the day.

What causes low energy (fatigue) and sleep problems?

  • Chemotherapy before surgery

  • Pain or discomfort after surgery

  • Pain medications

  • Caring for drains and urinary diversions

  • Nighttime urine leaks

  • Discomfort when sleeping on your right side, where your ostomy is located

Problems with bowel function

Bowel habits often change after surgery. These are usually a normal part of recovery and last for a few weeks after surgery. But some people experience long-term changes in bowel habits such as frequent bowel movements.

Contact your doctor if:

  • Nausea doesn’t go away

  • Vomiting starts

  • A lack of appetite prevents you from eating or drinking

  • You are not passing gas or having bowel movements

After going home, you might still experience:

  • Bloating

  • Nausea

  • Reduced appetite immediately after surgery

These symptoms usually get better with time.