Bladder retraining

For patients diagnosed with detrusor instability (motor urgency) or sensory urgency, a bladder retraining programme should be considered. The aims of bladder retraining are to increase bladder capacity and to extend the period of time between voiding.

Bladder retraining is a behavioural therapy that will require regular contact with the patient to maximise motivation and compliance. To enhance outcomes it can be combined with pelvic muscle exercises, electrostimulation, anticholinergic drugs and a controlled caffeine intake.

All patients should receive a copy of their care plan, together with written health education material on bladder retraining. A frequency volume chart must be filled in at least one day a week during the retraining programme. The day is negotiated with the patient.

The use of anticholinergic drugs, caffeine restriction and electrostimulation combined with a bladder retraining programme are likely to be effective only for patients with motor urgency.

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