It is important that you empty your bladder regularly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. If you cannot empty your bladder naturally, intermittent catheterisation is considered the gold standard.
Other bladder emptying methods include:
- Inserting a more permanent catheter through the urethra (indwelling catheters)
- Inserting a catheter through the belly (supra-pubic catheters)
Why do Healthcare Professionals often recommend IC as the preferred solution?
IC is widely thought to be the preferred method because of the lower risk of short and long-term complications including infections and it best mimics normal bladder function.
Most people using intermittent catheterisation find it more comfortable and convenient compared to an indwelling catheter. Once you master the routine you will be able to determine and maintain your own schedule to catheterise and empty your bladder as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
Surveys suggest that catheters that have a special smooth and low friction coating (hydrophilic-coated), are more comfortable, convenient and easy to use. They have also been linked with lower rates of infection and urethral damage when compared to other catheters. Other benefits include giving you greater independence and a better overall quality of life. The key is to find the catheter that works best for you and fits around your lifestyle.
