Essential Guide to Male Intermittent Catheterization

Intermittent catheterization (IC) helps males with a variety of urinary problems and drains urine successfully from the bladder. It also can help restore bladder function and reduce the risk of infection by lowering bladder pressure. Today Bever Medical will share detailed information about intermittent catheterization, including when it is appropriate, how to prepare, how to use it, and some practical tips to make the procedure easier and safer.

Who Needs Male Intermittent Catheterization?

The following people may need male intermittent catheters

1. Neurogenic Bladder

Patients with conditions like spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease often struggle to empty their bladder due to impaired nerve signals.

2. Low-Tension Bladder

Atonic bladder muscles may lead to incomplete voiding, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). IC helps reduce residual urine and prevent complications.

3. Overflow Incontinence

Caused by conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or urethral strictures, intermittent catheterization can manage overflow incontinence for patients who are not suitable for surgery.

4. Post-Surgical Needs

Patients recovering from pelvic surgeries, such as bladder reconstruction or prostate procedures, may require intermittent catheterization to aid healing and ensure bladder emptying.

5. Bladder Compliance Issues

Conditions like diabetes can lead to a high-compliance bladder, requiring periodic drainage to prevent over-distension.

Preparing for Intermittent Catheterization

To ensure a smooth and hygienic process, proper preparation is essential. Here are the recommended tools and steps:

1. Essential Tools

• Male intermittent catheters: These catheters are longer than the female urethra, like pre-lubricated, hydrophilic-coated catheters, etc.  
• Lubricants: Water-soluble lubricants make insertion easier and reduce discomfort.  
• Clean cotton wipes: For cleaning the urethral opening before catheterization.  
• Collection container or measuring cup: To collect and measure the drained urine.  
• Sterile gloves (optional）

2. Positioning

The patient should adopt a comfortable position. Sitting, standing, or lying down are all suitable, depending on individual preference and mobility.

3. Hygiene Protocol

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.  

Clean the urethral opening (meatus) with a cotton wipe, moving from the center outward in a circular motion.  

Step-by-Step Guide to Male Intermittent Catheterization

1. Insert the Catheter

Applying lubricant to the catheter’s tip can reduce friction during insertion. Hold the penis upward at a slight angle, and slowly insert the catheter into the urethra while the patient takes deep breaths to relax. Continue insertion until urine begins to flow.

2. Drain the Bladder

Allow the urine to flow completely into the collection container. Gently push the catheter an additional 1–2 cm after urine flow starts until the bladder is fully emptied.

3. Remove the Catheter

Once urine flow ceases, slowly and carefully remove the catheter to avoid irritation.

4. Clean the Catheter

Rinse the catheter with clean water, ensuring the inner lumen is thoroughly washed. Soak it in a disinfectant solution before storing it in its protective case.  

Post-Catheterization Care

It is critical for preventing infections and maintaining usability through proper catheter management. Adhering to the following tips can help a lot:

Replace the disinfectant solution used for soaking catheters daily to maintain sterility.  

Please replace catheters regularly or as advised by a healthcare professional, even if they appear clean.  

Conduct regular urine cultures (every 1–3 months) to check for asymptomatic bacteriuria or infections.  

Common Challenges and How to Address Them

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

IC reduces the risk of UTIs compared to indwelling catheters. If symptoms like foul-smelling or cloudy urine, lower abdominal pain, or fever appear, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Important: Stay hydrated and follow strict hygiene practices during catheterization.  

2. Catheter Insertion Discomfort

Ensure adequate lubrication and relaxation during insertion. Water-soluble lubricants are recommended to minimize irritation. 

3. Bladder Spasms

These may occur occasionally, especially for beginners. Consult a doctor if spasms persist. 

4. Difficulty with Self-Catheterization 

Patients with limited mobility or cognitive impairments may need assistance from caregivers. It is significant to give patients caregiver training to ensure safe and hygienic catheterization.

Special Considerations

Urethral Abnormalities: Patients with strictures, obstructions, or tumors may require specialized catheters like the Coude catheter,  hydrophilic intermittent catheter, etc.

Small Bladder Capacity: Those with a bladder capacity below 200 mL might need more frequent catheterization.  

Post-Surgical Care: Patients with urethral stents or artificial prosthetics should follow specific medical guidelines.  

Enhancing Convenience with Useful Tools

Several accessories can simplify the process of intermittent catheterization for male patients:  

Pre-Lubricated Catheters: Reduce preparation time and ensure smoother insertion.  

Urine Measurement Tools: Measuring cups or diaries help track urine output, which is critical for diagnosis and management.  

Disposable Catheters: For patients at high risk of infection, single-use catheters may be preferable.

Conclusion

Intermittent catheterization is a safe and effective way to manage bladder dysfunctions in male patients. By using male intermittent catheters and adhering to the right ways, patients can greatly reduce the risk of complications while improving their quality of life. Bever Medical offers OEM intermittent catheters for males and females, they are made of medical material, and designed for optimal comfort and ease of use. Now explore Bever Medical intermittent catheter products and find bladder care solutions here.