Let's Debunk Some Summertime Urology Myths!

Summer is a time to get outdoors, enjoy activities with friends and family and be active! When it comes to urologic conditions, there may be some concerns about summer activities and how they may impact your life. And of course the big question of “What much water is enough?” is a popular one for the summertime! Let’s debunk some myths about summer activities, urologic conditions and proper water intake so you can have the best summer yet! 

You can be active with an ostomy.

TRUE! You can do many activities with an ostomy, a hole created in your abdomen by surgery that allows urine or stool to exit your body. Such activities can include running, swimming, golfing and sexual activity. Contact sports with a high risk of injury aren’t recommended. Talk to your doctor about what activities are safe for you. You can use a special belt or binder to hold your ostomy bag in place for running or swimming. And for lifting weights, your doctor may recommend a device to support your abdomen. Again, talk to your doctor before you start any new activity.

Riding a bike may cause erectile dysfunction.

TRUE! A bicycle seat puts pressure on the area between the genitals and anus (called the perineum). This can harm nerves and temporarily slow blood flow. Over time, this could lead to erectile problems. But there are ways men can protect themselves. Choose a wide, well-padded bike saddle. Handlebars that are lower than the saddle will help reduce pressure on the perineum. If you feel tingling or numbness in your penis after you ride your bike, it could be a sign your cycling is leading to erectile problems. Stop riding for a week or two. Always take regular breaks during long rides. Wearing padded bike shorts will give you extra protection.

Staying in a wet swim suit causes UTIs.

FALSE! Wearing a wet bathing suit can increase the spread of bacteria. But it will not cause a urinary tract infection (UTI). To reduce your risk of getting a UTI, always wipe from front to back. Empty your bladder as soon as you feel the need to go. Make sure you’ve emptied your bladder completely. Drink plenty of water. If your urine isn’t pale yellow, you’re not drinking enough. Choose shower over baths. Wear underwear with a cotton crotch or with moisture wicking materials. Clean your genital area after sex. And urinate after sex to flush away bacteria.

Catheters can be taken on a plane.

TRUE! Catheters, which are tubes to help pass urine, are a needed health care device. Pack catheter supplies in your carry-on bags in case your checked luggage gets lost. Bring a TSA notification card to share why you need a catheter. This card may help travelers to quietly tell airport safety workers about any health issues, medical devices or drugs that might affect screening. Use your catheter close to boarding your flight. This may help you to avoid using the plane bathroom. If you are booking a long-distance flight, choose an aisle seat so it’s easier to get to the bathroom.

One can never drink too much water. 

FALSE! In rare cases, drinking too much water leads to a condition called water intoxication. The excess water dilutes sodium in the blood and causes fluids to move inside cells. This causes the cells to swell. You might start to feel confusion, drowsiness and headaches. In extreme cases, water intoxication can lead to high blood pressure, low heart rate and even death. The condition most commonly affects people who take part in sporting events or endurance training. Many liters of water would have to be consumed in a short amount of time to cause water intoxication (one liter equals about four cups). Water is a great choice to drink and you should drink enough water to stay hydrated (about eight, eight-ounce cups of fluid per day).