For many people, learning to self-catheterize is a small part of what they are currently dealing with. There are many reasons people start cathing; some only for a short time, some people for life. Sometimes it’s due to a physical problem. Sometimes it’s because of a problem related to brain signals, known as ‘neurogenic bladder’. There is a long list of reasons why your healthcare professional may prescribe the use of an intermittent catheter, including:
- Multiple sclerosis
- Spinal cord injury
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Urine retention
- Prostate tumor
- Spina bifida
- Bladder exstrophy
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia
There are several others, but intermittent catheters are recommended to help take back control from urinary incontinence. Fundamentally, each of these conditions may mean there is something affecting how the bladder sphincter or detrusor muscle (the bladder wall) function. Meaning your body may need a little help to drain urine.
After speaking with your doctor, a self-catherization routine that best meets your needs and approach to cathing should be determined. This routine should include knowing on average, how many times a day you’ll need to self-cath and what products are right for you.
Learn more about some of the most common conditions that can lead to using an intermittent catheter (IC).
