Colorectal surgery, particularly operations involving the rectum or lower colon, may temporarily affect bladder function due to the close relationship between pelvic organs. This article explains why bladder changes can occur after colorectal surgery in Singapore, what symptoms to expect, and how to support your recovery.
Factors Affecting Bladder Function After Colorectal Surgery
The bladder and rectum are positioned closely within the pelvis, and the nerves that control both organs often follow the same pathways. During colorectal surgery, especially when operating near the lower rectum, these nerves may be affected, leading to temporary changes in bladder function.
Common factors include:
Nerve location: The nerves supporting bladder control are located near the rectum and can be temporarily affected during surgery.
Tissue response: Surgical procedures cause temporary swelling and irritation to nearby tissues and nerves
Structural changes: Removing part of the bowel can alter the normal positioning of pelvic organs
Medication effects: General anaesthesia and post-operative pain relief can temporarily affect normal bladder reflexes
Common Bladder Changes After Colorectal Surgery
Bladder function changes following colorectal surgery are typically temporary. The type and extent of changes often depend on the specific procedure performed and individual factors. You may experience:
Difficulty emptying the bladder: Problems fully emptying the bladder, which may require temporary catheter use
Increased frequency: Needing to pass urine more often than usual, particularly during the first few weeks
Sudden urgency: Strong, sudden urges to urinate that may be difficult to delay
Reduced stream: Weaker urine flow, often related to nerve irritation or tissue swelling
Recovery Timeline for Bladder Function
Bladder function typically improves gradually as healing progresses. The general timeline is:
First 1-2 days: A urinary catheter is often used temporarily to allow the bladder to rest.
First week: Mild bladder changes are common as swelling subsides.
2-6 weeks: Most temporary bladder issues begin to improve during this period.
Beyond 6 weeks: If bladder symptoms persist beyond six weeks, consult a specialist for further evaluation.
Managing Bladder Function Changes
There are several ways to support your bladder function during recovery:
Scheduled toilet visits: Regular bathroom visits can help retrain your bladder and prevent overfilling.
Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening pelvic muscles can improve bladder control during recovery.
Fluid management: Drink enough fluids while limiting bladder irritants such as caffeine and alcohol.
Medications: In some cases, short-term medication may be prescribed to assist with bladder emptying or reduce urgency.
When to Seek Specialist Care
You should speak to your urologist if you experience:
- Persistent difficulty emptying your bladder
- Sudden worsening of bladder control, including frequent leakage or accidents
- Ongoing bladder discomfort, pain, or burning
- Complete inability to pass urine
Conclusion
Bladder changes can occur after colorectal surgery due to the close relationship between the pelvic organs. While many of these symptoms improve over time, persistent bladder issues can affect comfort and quality of life.
If you have ongoing bladder concerns following colorectal surgery in Singapore, your urologist can assess whether these symptoms are part of the expected recovery process or if further evaluation is required. In some cases, working alongside a colorectal specialist may be recommended to ensure comprehensive care and support for your recovery.
