In May 2023, I developed a bladder infection after returning from an eight-hour flight and was advised this was likely due to dehydration. I was treated with antibiotics but within days of finishing the course the infection, returned which resulted in me being on and off antibiotics until November 2023. At this time, I was told I had a slightly enlarged prostate and was prescribed Tamurex to try and improve voiding, alongside daily antibiotics and Hiprex. It wasn't until February I was informed the enlarged prostate was suitable for surgery.
The months of suffering with an infection were draining and really took a toll on my work and personal life. The combination of medication I was taking caused stomach issues and I felt very withdrawn from my usual social world. Living in the Lake District, I enjoy outside activities such as walking and swimming as well as traveling. I felt at this point in my life I couldn’t enjoy the things I love to do as my bladder became very unpredictable to the point, I felt uncomfortable travelling for work or pleasure. At its worst, I could not make the 30-minute journey to work without stopping for the toilet!
By February 2024 there were discussions about the possibility of needing to self-catheterise which was very upsetting along with the general worry my condition was more serious. At this point, I started to research into surgery options for an enlarged prostate and came across Aquablation Therapy, a minimally invasive treatment. After carrying out some extensive research I was keen to proceed with the surgery and came across The Yorkshire Clinic, one of the nearest hospitals offering this treatment.
I booked an appointment to see Mr Stewart at The Yorkshire Clinic, a consultant who specialises in Aquablation Therapy. My initial experience was seamless. Mr Stewart carried out a bladder scan, examination of my prostate, reviewed my NHS notes and organised blood tests that evening so I would not have to return to the hospital prior to surgery. I had already done my research prior to the appointment and knew I wanted to proceed with Aquablation therapy however I left the hospital feeling confident and reassured with my decision as everything was explained clearly to me.
My surgery went better than I had expected and even the following day I was relatively pain free. The hospital was outstanding and I found the staff very kind and caring, they explained everything that was happening to me clearly which made me feel at ease and relieved any anxiety I had. The difference post-surgery has been incredible, I couldn’t believe how quickly I recovered with little to no pain. Within days, the volume of urine I was passing had greatly increased and I felt more in control of my bladder. I feel so much more confident in work and public situations as I am not always looking for the toilet. The biggest difference I've noticed is only needing to get up once during the night to go to the toilet. I’m really surprised how much this one small change has had to my overall wellbeing; I now experience a better quality of sleep which has been amazing.
