Bladder Instillations

Bladder instillations are a type of treatment for bladder problems that involve the use of medication to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as pain, urgency, and frequency.

Man in a light grey suit wearing glasses

What are bladder instillations?

Bladder instillations involve the insertion of a catheter into the bladder and delivering medication directly into it. The medication is left in the bladder for a certain amount of time before being drained out. Typically used for individuals with interstitial cystitis or other bladder conditions that cause pain or discomfort, bladder instillations allow the medication to reach the bladder lining and treat the condition directly.

Man holding cell phone and coffee walking to work

Types of bladder instillations

Several types of medications can be used in bladder instillations, including:

Heparin: a blood thinner that can help reduce inflammation in the bladder
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO): a solvent that can help minimize bladder pain and inflammation
Lidocaine: a numbing medication that can help relieve pain
Hydrodistention: filling the bladder with fluid to stretch the bladder lining and reduce inflammation

Am I a good candidate for a bladder instillation?

Bladder instillations may be recommended for individuals with certain bladder conditions that do not respond well to other treatments. Some conditions that may be treated with bladder instillations include the following.

Interstitial cystitis (IC)

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition causing bladder pain and discomfort. Bladder instillations may help to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.

Bladder cancer

Bladder instillations may be used after surgery to remove cancer cells from the bladder to help prevent the cancer from returning.

Overactive bladder

Bladder instillations may help reduce the frequency and urgency of urination in people with overactive bladders.

Bladder stones

Bladder instillations may be used to dissolve bladder stones or prevent the formation of new stones.

Bladder infections

Bladder instillations may be used to treat recurrent bladder infections, especially in people who are resistant to antibiotics or have other medical conditions that make them more susceptible to infections.

The decision to use bladder instillations will depend on the specific condition being treated and your overall health. Dr. Bahlani will evaluate your medical history and perform a physical exam to determine if a bladder instillation is appropriate.

What to expect during your bladder instillation

During your bladder instillation, Dr. Bahlani will insert a catheter through your urethra and into the bladder. Once the catheter is in place, the medication will be slowly instilled into the bladder through the catheter. The amount of medication and the length of time it is left in the bladder will depend on the specific condition being treated.

You may feel discomfort or pressure during the procedure, but it should not be painful. After the medication has been instilled, the catheter will be removed, and you will be able to urinate normally. Drinking plenty of fluids after the procedure is essential to help flush the medication out of the bladder.

Why choose Pelvic Pain Doc for bladder instillation?

Dr. Bahlani, the Pelvic Pain Doc, is an excellent choice for those seeking bladder instillation treatment because she has extensive experience treating pelvic floor disorders in New York City and related bladder issues. She is a fellowship-trained specialist in sexual and pelvic health who has dedicated her practice to helping patients resolve these conditions.

Dr. Bahlani's clinical expertise ensures an accurate diagnosis of all potential causes of pelvic pain, while her surgical skills achieve optimal results from procedures. She is highly experienced and comfortable performing bladder instillation procedures, making her the ideal doctor for anyone considering this treatment.

Contact us today to learn more about bladder instillation and how it can relieve your symptoms. By choosing Dr. Bahlani as your specialist, you can rest assured that you will receive the best care available and achieve a successful outcome from your bladder instillation procedure.