What is self-catheterization?
Self-catheterization is a way to regularly empty your bladder. You insert a catheter through the urethra into the bladder. The catheter is not permanent.
How do you use a catheter at home?
When you need to empty your bladder, try to urinate first, if you can, before you use the catheter.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have symptoms of a urinary tract infection. These may include:
- Pain or burning when you urinate.
- A frequent need to urinate without being able to pass much urine.
- Pain in the flank, which is just below the rib cage and above the waist on either side of the back.
- Blood or pus in your urine.
- A fever.
- Your urine smells bad.
- You can't pass any urine.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
Current as of: November 15, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.