Methods for the Limp Bladder

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HealthWiki > Disabled Village Children > Chapter 25: Urine and Bowel Management > Methods for the Limp Bladder

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In this chapter:

 

In this chapter:

If the person’s bladder is limp (flaccid), it never empties by reflex. The bladder will constantly have urine sitting in it unless an effective emptying method is used.

1. Put in a regular catheter every 4 to 6 hours to empty the bladder. Between catheter use, boys can put on a condom to catch any leaking urine. For girls, if there is leaking in between catheter times, use diapers, rags, or a thick sanitary pad to catch the urine. Change them often and wash often to protect the skin and prevent sores.
2. A Foley catheter can be used, but may lead to problems.
3. Other alternatives include a surgical operation, which allows the urine to come out through a small opening on the belly into a bag. Or a catheter is put into the bladder through a small hole in the lower belly.

OTHER SUGGESTIONS FOR THE LIMP BLADDER

• The push method

Or strain to push urine out by tightening the stomach muscles.

Push down over the bladder with the hands.

Or put a fist over the lower belly and gently press it by bending forward.

This method is recommended by many professionals, but it can cause problems. If the muscles do not relax to let the urine out, pushing on the bladder can force urine back into the kidneys—causing kidney infection and damage. Therefore, the push method should only be used if the urine comes out easily with gentle pressure—or if there is no other way possible.

• With boys with a limp bladder, the condom method can be used. But it is best to also use a regular catheter at least 3 times a day. This is because the bladder does not empty completely, which makes infection more likely.

This page was updated:04 Apr 2024