Children's Community Nursing Service, Richmond
Why bladder instillation is needed
A healthy bladder has a natural barrier protecting the bladder lining from urine. This barrier is called the GAG (‘glycosaminoglycan’) layer.
If this barrier is damaged, urine can come into direct contact with the bladder lining. This causes inflammation. Symptoms can include:
- pain
- urgency (the need to go to the toilet urgently)
- frequency (the need to go to the toilet more often).
What bladder instillation is
Bladder instillation involves using a catheter to put liquid medication into the bladder. The medication coats the inside of the bladder to restore the protective layer. This reduces inflammation and discomfort in the bladder.
There are different types of medication used for bladder instillation. They are all given in the same way. We will discuss the options with you in the clinic beforehand.
Usually, treatment is done 6 times: once a week for 4 weeks and then twice more every 2 weeks. In other words, it’s done in week 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8.
Preparing for treatment
We will send you a letter with the dates and times for all your appointments. Let us know as soon as possible if you cannot attend so that we can rearrange them.
On the day of treatment
You can eat and drink normally on treatment days. When you arrive, you will need to give a urine sample to check you do not have an infection.
What the procedure involves
- A small, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into your bladder.
- Your bladder is drained of any urine.
- A solution of medication is passed into your bladder through the catheter.
- The catheter is then removed.
The procedure is done by a specialist nurse.
You can go home afterwards, but you must try to hold this solution in your bladder for at least 30 minutes, but up to 3 hours. You can then pass urine normally.
After your appointment
You can eat and drink normally after the treatment.
What next
In your 6th session, we will discuss with you how you are getting on.
If your symptoms have improved, we will offer you further top-up treatment sessions.
If your symptoms have not improved, we will make an appointment for you to see the Consultant.
Contact information
Urogynaecology Team