Guide to Self-Catheterization for Women

Introduction

Self-catheterization is a medical procedure that allows individuals to drain urine from the bladder when they cannot do so naturally. This is often necessary for women with conditions like neurogenic bladder, urinary retention, or post-surgical bladder dysfunction.

Indications for Self-Catheterization

• Neurogenic bladder (e.g., multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury)
• Urinary retention due to weakened bladder muscles
• Post-surgical care (after gynecological or urological procedures)
• Bladder dysfunction caused by chronic diseases like diabetes

Equipment Needed

• A sterile catheter (single-use or reusable depending on medical advice)
• Lubricant (water-based to reduce friction and discomfort)
• Sterile or clean gloves
• Antiseptic wipes or soap and water
• A collection container (if urinating in a non-toilet setting)

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Preparation

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Gather all necessary equipment on a clean surface.

2. Positioning

• Sit on the toilet or in a comfortable, reclined position.
• Use a mirror if needed for better visibility.

3. Cleaning

• Use an antiseptic wipe or clean water with mild soap to clean the urethral area from front to back.

4. Inserting the Catheter

• Apply lubricant to the catheter tip.
• Gently spread the labia and locate the urethral opening.
• Carefully insert the catheter into the urethra until urine begins to flow (typically insert 5-7 cm).
• Allow urine to drain completely.

5. Removal and Cleaning

• Slowly remove the catheter once urine stops flowing.
• Dispose of a single-use catheter; if reusable, clean it as per instructions.
• Wash hands thoroughly again.

Possible Complications and Prevention

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – Always use proper hygiene and sterile equipment. 2. Bleeding or irritation – Use sufficient lubrication and gentle insertion techniques. 3. Difficulty inserting catheter – Try repositioning or using a smaller-sized catheter.

When to Contact a Doctor

• Cloudy, foul-smelling, or bloody urine
• Burning sensation or pain while urinating
• Inability to insert the catheter properly

Conclusion

Self-catheterization empowers women to manage their urinary retention safely at home. With proper hygiene and technique, this procedure is simple and reduces the risk of infections.

Source recommendations

1. European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines on Neuro-Urology

1. https://uroweb.org/guidelines/neuro-urology
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26304502/
3. https://uroweb.org/guidelines/neuro-urology/chapter/the-guideline
4. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Neuro-Urology-2022.pdf
5. https://uroweb.org/guidelines/neuro-urology/summary-of-changes

2. American Urological Association (AUA) Guidelines on Urinary Retention

1. https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/quality-and-measurement/quality-improvement/clinical-consensus-statement-and-quality-improvement-issue-brief-(ccs-and-qiib)/chronic-urinary-retention
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538499/
3. https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/adult-neurogenic-lower-urinary-tract-dysfunction
4. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acute-urinary-retention
5. https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines