Julian: Does it matter that I have to catheterise? I guess so… but not really. I just have to go through a slightly different way to do the same function that everybody else does.
Intermittent self-catheterisation helps you maintain a healthy bladder through the low risk of short- and long-term complications – but it also has a number of other benefits. These include enabling you to have good control over your bladder, which offers you more independence and confidence because you – not someone else – can manage your bladder.
Throughout Coloplast Charter, you will encounter stories from people enjoying activities such as:
- Travelling
- Movies, theatres, concerts and sports games
- Shopping
- Camping or hiking
- Exercising and swimming
The main reason why all this is possible, is because ISC allows you to manage your bladder, when and wherever it suits you.
The flexibility to start going out
Mastering ISC offers you more independence and freedom in your daily life and the ability to schedule more social activities. Once you have an ISC routine that fits into your lifestyle, you can feel more confident about going out with your friends without having to worry about having an accident. If you are going out for many hours, you just need to think ahead and plan the day: will I need to catheterise before leaving the museum, or after we get to the restaurant? Always take extra catheters when you leave your house. Some may want to use a different catheter when not at home – maybe one with a bag attached or one that is smaller.
The freedom to take part in sports and exercise
Performing ISC is also a step towards more freedom when it comes to sports, because you can be active without the fear of leaking. If you stick to your ISC schedule you can engage in whatever activity your physical condition allows you to. Once you get a good routine, ISC only takes a few minutes, so even if you have to empty your bladder during sports, you will not be gone any longer than anyone else who has to use the bathroom.
For sport and active lifestyle we recommend a SpeediCath® Compact solution.
The confidence to enjoy an active sex life
On the contrary, catheterising yourself and emptying your bladder completely before having sex will prevent leakage during intimate activity.
The only thing you need to consider, is that ISC does not allow you to be completely spontaneous; always take the time to empty your bladder before engaging in intimate activity.
