Possible Urine Retention. Any experiences of Self Catheterisation?

I would get the training for self catheterisation if its offered to you. I've done it and if you are prone to retention its a good backup plan to have if you get into difficulties.

Only downside is you have to be very careful with hygiene as its easy to pick up urinary infections. The catheterisation process is very straightforward and modern hydrophilic catheters are very comfortable to use.

I've been meaning to post something on this for a while so here are some notes

Intermittent vs Indwelling Catheters

Having just received training on how to self-catheterize I thought I'd share my experience and pass on the benefits of ISC (Intermittent Self Catheterization) vs indwelling catheters.

I received training on ISC at my local hospital urology department and the whole process lasted about an hour. I must admit to being a bit anxious before the appointment and the thought of introducing tubes into sensitive areas of the body was a bit daunting.

However, a lovely nurse put me at ease and I completed the appointment feeling confident I could complete the procedure safely and independently.

During the training the nurse will explain the anatomy of the urinary system, show you the different types of catheter, explain the process of ISC and finally you will try the procedure for yourself. Important information on hygiene and risks is also explained.

The modern hydrophylic catheters (activated by breaking a small capsule of saline inside the catheter packaging) are amazing and very comfortable and easy to use.

Intermittent self-catheterisation has a number of advantages over the indwelling type.

It has a lower infection rate (UTI)

You can live a much more normal life without having any permanent appliance in or on your body

You can still have sexual intercourse

I received the training as I occasionally have trouble emptying my bladder and ISC means I can avoid the anxiety and discomfort associated with these symptoms.

 Sandberg (Rob)