Hi Paul, I am using the pads supplied by my local Continence Nurse. They are the size of a single duvet! The official size is Normal Plus. I think they hold half a litre. It's very early days, but yesterday, I managed to go through the day from 10.00 until 22.00 hours using one pad. It doesn't appear to be incredibly wet. I would hazard a guess at a 4 inch circle only - where it is wet.
I have got into the habit of heading straight for the bathroom when I get up from the chair, that must be helping. I am aware of the fact there are leaks if I sneeze, cough, move quickly etc, but have been managing to get some flow when reaching the bathroom.
Last night, second night without the catheter, I awoke five times, headed straight for the bathroom and managed a reasonable flow each time. As a result, my pad was relatively dry. I am not getting up with the urge to urinate, just working on instinct.
Having been told I would have no control whatsoever, I am hugely encouraged, but fear this may be down to luck?
Thank you for your response to my post, it's very much appreciated.
Steve