Managing Urinary Incontinence After Head Surgery or Trauma
Learn practical steps to treat urinary incontinence after head surgery or trauma, covering assessment, therapies, medications, catheters, and when to get professional help.
When dealing with post‑operative bladder control, the ability to manage urination after surgery. Also known as post‑surgical urinary management, it matters for comfort, infection risk and overall recovery.
One common companion is urinary incontinence, unintended leakage that can follow abdominal or pelvic procedures. It often stems from temporary nerve irritation or weakened muscles. Addressing it usually starts with pelvic floor exercises, targeted movements that strengthen the muscles supporting the bladder. These exercises can be taught by a physio or learned via guided videos. Consistent practice helps re‑establish control and reduces reliance on pads.
Another key factor is catheter management, how the tube is cared for, removed and monitored after surgery. Proper technique prevents infections and sets the stage for successful bladder training, a schedule that gradually increases time between bathroom trips. Together, these steps create a feedback loop: good catheter care reduces irritation, which makes bladder training more effective, leading to quicker mastery of bladder control.
Medication can tip the balance, too. Some pain relievers or anticholinergic drugs listed in our other guides may worsen urinary retention, while others like alpha‑blockers can help. Knowing which medicines interact with bladder function lets you and your doctor adjust doses or switch to alternatives, keeping recovery on track.
Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into each of these areas—whether you need a step‑by‑step exercise guide, tips on safe catheter removal, or insight on drug choices that affect bladder health. Use them to build a personalized plan and get back to feeling normal faster.
Learn practical steps to treat urinary incontinence after head surgery or trauma, covering assessment, therapies, medications, catheters, and when to get professional help.