After surgery, the patient is generally in the hospital for one to two nights. A catheter is often used to drain the bladder during this time. Several months after the operation, an ultrasound and/or a VCUG is done to make sure that the operation was successful. Once the reflux is corrected, it is not likely to come back.

Prevention

After VUR treatment, your child should feel much better. You may be asked to see your urologist for follow-up exams to make sure all is well.

To keep healthy, it is of great value to prevent or quickly treat future UTIs. Treating infections quickly will lower the risk of kidney scarring. Some urologists may recommend that infant boys become circumcised to prevent infections.

During the “Watch and Wait” period, some providers suggest a long-term, low-dose antibiotic to prevent UTIs.

This recommendation is often based on the child’s history of infections and bladder health. The other choice is to take a high-dose antibiotic when an infection is found. Some studies say antibiotics may lead to higher risks of health problems in adulthood. Antibiotics could also lead to a loss of good-bacteria needed for a healthy body. Parents should to talk with their children’s doctor to choose the best preventative option for their child.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water or other fluids should my child usually drink?

Most children drink when they are thirsty. If your child often gets UTIs, then they should drink more water. It is important that children keep their urine diluted and to regularly empty their bladder. A good strategy is to have your child drink one or one-and-a-half cups of water at each meal. Children should also drink between meals.

Do bubble baths cause UTIs?

No, bubble baths do not cause UTIs. Bubble baths can cause skin issues in the female vaginal area. These skin issues can affect urination and increase the risk for a UTI.

If your child likes bubble baths, then just make sure all of the soap is washed off at the end of the bath.

What can I do to prevent my child from getting a UTI?

To avoid UTIs, ensure your child:

• Drinks a lot of water
• Goes to the bathroom often
• Maintains a good diet with a lot of vegetables and food with fiber to lower the risk of constipation (not being able to have a bowel movement)
• Limit the amount of processed sugars eaten

Should my child take antibiotics to prevent future UTIs?

This is a question you should ask your child’s urologist. Some children do very well when they take a small dose of antibiotics every day to prevent infections. This is known as Continuous Antibiotic Prophylaxis or (CAP).

What are my child’s risks vs. benefits of long-term antibiotic use?

The benefits of long-term antibiotic use are:

• Preventing infections
• Avoiding possible kidney damage

The risks of long-term antibiotic use are:

• Allergic reactions to antibiotics
• The bacteria causing the infections may resist antibiotic treatment. This means the drugs will no longer get rid of the infection or have an effect. Your child will not become immune to antibiotics. Bacteria can change and become resistant to antibiotics over time.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• How did my child develop VUR?
• What treatment do you suggest?
• Is there anything I can do to help my child feel better?
• How will I know if my child is getting better or worse?
• How soon should my child feel better?
• If surgery is best: why and what type?
• What will recovery from surgery be like?
• How long do you recommend annual visits?

Updated May 2023.