Bladder Problems Related to Spina Bifida

People with spina bifida, a congenital condition affecting spinal cord development, often experience bladder control challenges due to nerve damage. The most common bladder issue related to spina bifida is neurogenic bladder, a condition where nerve signals between the bladder and brain are disrupted, leading to problems with urination.

Managing bladder health is an important part of preventing complications and maintaining overall well-being. This article explores the common bladder issues associated with spina bifida, their symptoms, and effective management strategies, including catheter use.

Common Bladder Problems Related to Spina Bifida

Spina bifida can disrupt the nerve pathways responsible for bladder control, leading to:

• Urinary Incontinence – Involuntary urine leakage due to a bladder that cannot store urine properly.
• Urinary Retention – The inability to fully empty the bladder can cause discomfort and increase infection risk.
• Neurogenic Bladder – A condition where the bladder is either too flaccid (loose and stretched) or spastic (overactive and tight), leading to incomplete emptying or frequent urination.

Symptoms of Bladder Dysfunction

Symptoms depend on the type of bladder issue but may include:

• Frequent urination or urgency
• Urinary leakage or dribbling
• Feeling of fullness or discomfort in the bladder
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Increased UTI risk (cloudy urine, foul smell, fever, or burning sensation)

If left unmanaged, bladder dysfunction in spina bifida may increase the risk of kidney damage, making proper care essential.

How Can Bladder Health Be Managed?

Managing bladder problems effectively can help prevent complications like UTIs, kidney damage, and skin irritation. Depending on the severity, treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, or catheterization.

Catheter Use for Bladder Management

Many individuals with spina bifida use catheters to help empty the bladder.

• Intermittent Catheters – Inserted as needed to drain urine
• Indwelling Catheters (Foley Catheters) – Left in place for continuous drainage
• External Catheters – A non-invasive option for men, similar to a condom-like sheath that collects urine into a bag
• Catheters for Limited Dexterity – Options like the Cure Dextra™ catheter offer easier handling for those with limited hand mobility

Proper catheter use and hygiene are crucial to prevent UTIs and protect kidney health.

Additional Bladder Health Tips

✔ Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water may help flush bacteria from the urinary tract
✔ Practice Good Hygiene – Proper sterile catheter use and may reduce infection risk
✔ Prevent Constipation – A high-fiber diet supports bowel health and may reduce pressure on the bladder
✔ Regular Medical Checkups – Monitoring kidney function and bladder health is essential for long-term well-being

When to See a Doctor

If you or a loved one with spina bifida experiences changes in bladder function, frequent UTIs, or discomfort, seek medical advice promptly. Bladder issues can lead to serious complications, including kidney damage, if left untreated.

Need Help Finding the Right Catheter for Your Needs?

We offer a variety of catheters and urological supplies designed for bladder management in spina bifida. Our team can help you find the best catheter type and answer any questions.

Request a free sample today! Call us at 888-726-5066 or fill out our form to get started.