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Prostate Aquablation Discharge Instructions

Aquablation is a procedure to remove some prostate tissue. The procedure is done through the tube in your penis (urethra). After the procedure, a thin plastic tube (catheter) is put in your urethra. This will help you pee.

If you go home with a catheter

You can go home from the hospital when you can pee on your own. If you can’t pee, you may go home with the catheter in place. If so, your doctor will tell you when and how to take it out.

What to expect

  • You will likely have some pain for several days after the procedure.

  • You may have bruising and swelling on your scrotum. This may go away in a few days. Or it may last up to 3 weeks.

  • You may have pain for 2 to 3 days in the area between your scrotum and anus. This area is called the perineum.

  • You may see a light pink fluid from your urethra for a few days or weeks.

To ease your recovery

Person resting at home and taking medicine after the procedure.

  • Take pain medicine as needed. You can take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or prescription medicine as directed.

  • To soothe your perineum, hold a cold pack on it. Cover the cold pack in a thin towel. Keep it in place for up to 20 minutes at a time.

  • Take all medicines as directed. You may be given medicine to prevent infection and to help you pee.

Activity and bathing

  • Rest and take it easy for the next 2 days or so. Don’t do brisk exercise or lift heavy things for 48 hours. Go back to normal activity when you feel able to.

  • Don’t shower for 24 hours. After 24 hours, you can shower as normal. Clean your groin area very gently.

  • Don’t dip your lower body in water for 2 weeks. This means you should not take a bath, use a hot tub, or go swimming.

When you pee

  • You may need to pee more often for up to 6 weeks after your procedure.

  • Your pee may flow more slowly for about 2 to 3 weeks.

  • Your pee will have small amounts of blood in it for a few days. If you have heavy bleeding or blood clots, contact your doctor.

  • You may have a burning feeling when you pee. This may last for 1 to 2 weeks. Your doctor may give you a prescription medicine to help with this.

Changes in sexual function

  • You may have changes in getting an erection. Ask your doctor what to expect.

  • You may ejaculate less semen now. This is permanent.

  • Your semen may have a small amount of blood in it. This may last for 2 to 3 weeks.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your doctor as advised. Keep all follow-up appointments.

When to call your doctor

Call your doctor right away if you have any of these:

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your doctor

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain (call 911)

  • Severe pain not helped by pain medicine

  • A lot of blood or blood clots in your pee or catheter

  • Troubling peeing

  • Can’t pee at all

  • Pain in your testicles

  • Perineum that is very red, painful, and swollen

Date Last Reviewed: 3/1/2025
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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