Self-Catheterization - Female

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Some women have a condition called urinary retention, which means they are unable to empty the bladder adequately.  This may be a temporary condition (caused by recent surgery or by certain medications), or a permanent condition due to health problems.  If your provider recommends you drain your bladder by introducing a catheter (tube) into the bladder and draining the urine out, this information will be helpful to you.   

What to Expect at Home:

Urine will drain through your catheter into the toilet or a special container.  At first this may seem difficult, but after some practice it will get easier.  Sometimes family members may be able to help you use your catheter.  Your doctor will give you a prescription for the right catheter for you.  There are different types and sizes.  You can buy catheters at medical supply stores.  You will also need small plastic bags and a gel such as K-Y jelly or Surgilube.  Do NOT use Vaseline (petroleum jelly).  Usually you should empty your bladder with your catheter 3 to 6 times per day.  Always try to empty your bladder first thing in the morning and when you go to bed at night.  You can empty your bladder while sitting on a toilet.  Our staff can show you how to do this correctly.  

Using Your Catheter:

Follow these steps to insert your catheter:

1. Wash your hands well with soap and water.
2. Use your bare, clean hands or disposable gloves (need not be sterile, but clean)
3. Gently separate labia, and find urinary opening.  Using a mirror may help at first.
4. Wash labia 3 times from front to back, using a fresh antiseptic wipe each time.
5. Get your container ready, or sit on the toilet.
6. Apply the K-Y jelly or other lubricant gel to the tip and the top 2 inches of the catheter (Some catheters come pre-lubricated). 
7. Gently slide the catheter up into your urethra until urine starts to flow.  Do not force the catheter.  Start over if it is not going in well.  Try to relax and breathe deeply.
8. Let the urine flow into the toilet or container.  Bear down 1 or 2 times to empty all the urine from your bladder.
9. When urine stops flowing, pinch the end of the catheter (to avoid getting wet), and slowly remove the catheter.  

Cleaning Your Catheter:

Clean your catheter every day.  Always make sure you are in a clean bathroom.  Do NOT let the catheter touch any of the bathroom surfaces (such as the toilet, wall, and floor).  Follow these steps to clean your catheter:

1. Wash your hands well.

2. Rinse out the catheter with a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 4 parts water.  Alternatively, you may soak it in hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes.  You can also use warm water and soap.  The catheter does not need to be sterile, just clean.

3. Rinse it again with cold water.

4. Hang the catheter over a clean towel to dry.

5. When the catheter is dry, store it in a new plastic bag.

6. Throw away the catheter when it becomes dry and brittle.  Some catheters are designed to only be used once.