Rezum water vapour therapy is a minimally invasive option for men seeking BPH treatment in Singapore. Understanding the potential side effects helps you prepare for recovery and know what to expect after the procedure. This guide covers the most common reactions, symptoms requiring medical attention, and ways to manage your recovery period.
What Is Rezum Treatment?
Rezum uses controlled water vapour to reduce excess prostate tissue that causes urinary symptoms. The procedure typically takes less than an hour and targets specific areas of your prostate that block urine flow. Most patients can return home the same day, though temporary side effects commonly occur as your body heals.
For men with larger prostates or more severe symptoms, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments such as HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate), which removes excess tissue more completely.
Common Side Effects After Rezum Treatment
It is normal to experience temporary urinary and pelvic symptoms as your body heals following Rezum treatment. These side effects occur as the treated prostate tissue breaks down and is naturally absorbed by the body. Most symptoms improve gradually within 2 to 6 weeks, though individual recovery timelines may vary.
Increased Urinary Frequency
You may find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, especially during the first few weeks after the procedure. This is a common response to temporary inflammation and tissue swelling in the prostate. Some men also notice increased urgency or feel the need to pass urine suddenly. These changes typically improve as the swelling subsides.
Blood in Urine (Haematuria)
It is common to notice light pink or reddish urine after Rezum treatment. This occurs as a result of minor bleeding from the treated prostate tissue. In most cases, this resolves within 1 to 2 weeks as the area heals. You may also see small clots or sediment in your urine during this time. Maintaining good hydration helps flush your system and may speed up the resolution of these symptoms.
Discomfort During Urination
A burning or stinging sensation when passing urine often develops in the days following treatment. This is typically due to irritation of the urethra and bladder from both the procedure and the natural healing process. The discomfort usually improves on its own but may be managed with medications prescribed by your doctor if needed.
Pelvic Discomfort
Mild aching, pressure, or a sense of fullness in the pelvic area is another common side effect after Rezum treatment. This may feel similar to muscle soreness or the discomfort experienced after strenuous activity. Applying warmth to the lower abdomen, such as with a heating pad or warm bath, can help ease these symptoms. Pelvic discomfort generally improves as inflammation reduces over time.
Temporary Urinary Symptoms
In addition to the above, some men may notice a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, or feeling that the bladder is not completely empty. These symptoms are often temporary and related to tissue swelling or debris from the treated prostate. As the prostate shrinks and heals, normal urinary function usually returns.
Supporting Your Recovery
Certain measures can help reduce discomfort and support healing during your recovery period.
Maintain adequate hydration: Drinking sufficient water helps flush your system and may reduce urinary discomfort
Avoid heavy lifting: Refrain from lifting heavy objects or straining during bowel movements for the first week to reduce pelvic pressure
Apply warmth for comfort: A warm bath or heating pad on your lower abdomen can help ease pelvic discomfort
Follow prescribed medications: Your doctor may recommend pain relief or antibiotics during the healing process
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most side effects after Rezum treatment are temporary, certain symptoms may indicate complications that require prompt medical attention.
Contact a qualified urologist in Singapore immediately if you experience:
- Complete inability to urinate for more than 6 hours
- Bright red blood or large clots in your urine that persist beyond 48 hours
- Severe pelvic pain or worsening discomfort that does not improve
- Fever above 38°C, chills, or foul-smelling urine, which may indicate infection
- Any other concerns about your recovery or if your symptoms worsen after the first 48 hours
Conclusion
Most side effects after Rezum treatment are temporary and improve within a few weeks. Understanding what to expect can help you manage your recovery and recognise when to seek medical advice.
If you have concerns about your recovery or would like to explore other treatment options such as HoLEP, schedule a consultation with our urologist specialist in singapore to discuss the most suitable approach for your condition.
