Many others can be re-used if cleaned appropriately. Some catheters are meant to be used only once.

Always close the toilet lid before flushing to prevent germs from spreading.

If you are using a container to collect urine, empty it into the toilet.

Make sure the foreskin is back in place if you are uncircumcised.

Wash the end of your penis with a clean cloth or baby wipe.

Pinch the end closed to avoid getting wet.

When urine stops, slowly remove the catheter.

Let the urine drain into the toilet or special container.

(Younger boys will push in the catheter only about 1 inch or 2.5 centimeters more at this point.)

After urine starts to flow, gently push in the catheter about 2 more inches (5 centimeters), or to the 'Y' connector.

Once the catheter is in, urine will start to flow.

With your other hand, insert the catheter using firm, gentle pressure.

With one hand, hold your penis straight out.

(Some catheters come with gel already on them.) Another type is soaked in sterile water which makes them self-lubricated.

Apply the K-Y Jelly or another gel to the tip and top 2 inches (5 centimeters) of the catheter.

Wash the tip of your penis with Betadine (an antiseptic cleaner), a towelette, soap and water, or baby wipes the way your provider showed you.

Move back the foreskin of your penis if you are uncircumcised.

The gloves do not need to be sterile unless your provider says so.

You may use clean disposable gloves if you prefer not to use your bare hands.

Collect your supplies, including your catheter (open and ready to be used), a towelette or other cleaning wipe, lubricant, and a container to collect the urine if you are not planning to sit on the toilet.

Wash your hands well with soap and water.

This increases your risk of infection, permanent kidney damage, or other complications.įollow these steps to insert your catheter: You may need to empty your bladder more frequently if you have had more fluids to drink.Īvoid letting your bladder get too full. In most cases, it is every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 to 6 times a day.Īlways empty your bladder first thing in the morning and just before you go to bed at night. Your provider can also submit a prescription to a mail order company to have the supplies and catheters delivered to your house.Īsk how often you should empty your bladder with your catheter. Other supplies may include towelettes and lubricant such as K-Y Jelly or Surgilube. There are many different types and sizes. You will get a prescription for the right catheter for you. Sometimes family members or other people you know such as a friend who is a nurse or medical assistant may be able to help you use your catheter.Ĭatheters and other supplies can be bought at medical supply stores. Your health care provider will show you how to use your catheter. Urine will drain through your catheter into the toilet or a special container.

Go hard or go home clean