A person may experience some pain and discomfort after bladder sling surgery. However, the pain should ease in a few days or weeks. People can consult a doctor if their pain is severe or worsens.
Bladder sling surgery is a minimally invasive surgery that treats urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. The procedure can cause some pain and discomfort. However, the pain that follows this surgery is not severe and subsides fairly quickly.
Following recovery instructions after surgery can help ensure a speedy recovery and prevent complications. Medication and lifestyle modifications may help with managing pain and discomfort. Additionally, getting plenty of rest, avoiding strenuous activities, and following a nutritious diet are vital for healing.
Read on to learn more about pain levels during and after bladder sling surgery, additional after-effects, and aftercare tips.
Bladder sling surgery is a relatively simple, minimally invasive procedure. Before the surgery, a healthcare professional will administer general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia.
During a procedure involving general anesthesia, the person is unconscious and will not feel any pain.
If the individual receives spinal anesthesia, they will be awake and aware of their surroundings during the procedure. However, they will not be able to feel anything from the waist down.
Bladder sling surgery can cause mild to moderate pain, soreness, and general discomfort. In most cases, the pain is temporary and subsides over time. It may last a few days or, in some cases, a few weeks.
The severity and duration of the pain can vary from person to person. For most people, the pain goes away fairly quickly.
However, for some, the pain may be severe and last longer than a few days. The pain levels depend on a person’s overall health and pain threshold.
Following bladder sling surgery, a person may experience pain at the incision site, in the abdominal area, and near the pubic bone.
Typically, bladder sling surgery is
While some pain is typical after bladder sling surgery, a person should be aware of unusual or uncomfortable sensations while coughing, sneezing, and laughing. These may indicate a problem with the sling’s placement.
If someone experiences worsening pain or discomfort, they need to inform a healthcare professional.
- bleeding
- bladder or urethral injury
- injury to other organs, such as the intestines
- chronic pain
- problems with urination, including urinary urgency and bladder obstruction
- infection
- urinary incontinence
- urinary retention
- urinary tract infection
- deep vein thrombosis
If the sling does not stay in place or mesh erosion or exposure occurs, additional surgery
To encourage healing and reduce discomfort following bladder sling surgery, a person needs to rest for at least a few days. However, some people may need to rest for longer.
It may take several weeks to fully recover from surgery and resume all activities, including sexual intercourse. A person can consult a healthcare professional before resuming physical activity and returning to work.
During the first few weeks after surgery, a person should avoid high intensity exercises such as jogging, running, and jumping. They should also avoid activities that involve straining and heavy lifting that can put pressure on the abdomen and bladder.
A doctor may prescribe antibiotics, pain medications, and muscle relaxants following bladder sling surgery.
People can also manage pain with over-the-counter medications, including acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
The following may help a person cope with postsurgery pain and discomfort:
- getting adequate rest
- using ice packs and heating pads
- staying hydrated
- taking showers instead of baths
- avoiding caffeine and alcohol
- performing pelvic floor exercises according to a doctor’s instructions
- following a balanced diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables
- avoiding acidic and spicy foods
- doing gentle stretches
A person should contact a doctor if they have severe pain following bladder sling surgery or pain that does not improve or worsens.
A healthcare professional can help determine the cause of the pain and recommend next steps.
Individuals should also contact a healthcare professional if they experience signs of infection, including fever, pus drainage, redness, and swelling.
Bladder sling surgery is a relatively minor procedure that can cause minor discomfort and pain. Typically, the pain goes away after a short time, and most people recover in a few weeks.
Following surgery, a person can manage pain with medications and home remedies.
To help with successful recovery, individuals need to rest, eat a nutritious diet, and avoid strenuous activity. It is also essential for them to follow a doctor’s instructions for postoperative care and attend follow-up appointments.
A person can talk with a healthcare professional if they develop complications or have pain that persists or worsens.