Self-Catheterization for Women
Self-catheterization helps you empty your bladder if it doesn’t empty by itself. It also helps if your bladder doesn’t empty all the way. Follow the steps below.
This is what you’ll need
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Soap and warm water or a moist towelette
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Water-soluble lubricating jelly ( not petroleum jelly)
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Clean catheter (your healthcare provider will tell you the correct type and size)
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Mirror
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Toilet or basin
Step 1. Preparation
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Gather all equipment needed.
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Arrange your clothing so it's out of the way.
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Wash your hands and your genitals. Use warm, soapy water or a moist towelette to clean your urethral opening. The urethra is the tube that drains urine from the bladder. Always wash from front to back.
Step 2. Lubricate the catheter
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Lubricate catheter |
Step 3. Insert the catheter
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Spread the labia. Find the urethra with a mirror or your index finger. The urethra is located just above the vaginal opening.
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Slowly put the catheter into your urethra about 2 to 4 inches. If it doesn’t go in, take a deep breath and bear down as if trying to urinate.
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Insert catheter |
Step 4. Empty urine
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When the urine starts flowing, gently push the catheter in an additional ½ to 1 inch.
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When the urine stops flowing, slowly remove the catheter.
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Empty urine |
Step 5. Wash the catheter
A single-use catheter should only be used once and then thrown away. If yours can be used more than once:
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Wash the catheter in mild soap and water.
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Rinse it well. Run water through it. Then let it air-dry.
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Wash your hands with soap and water. If you use a basin, wash it out.
© 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.