Why Does Catheterization Cause Pain?

Although you have learned to use the catheter with the help of your doctor and nurse, it is normal to feel discomfort when using it at the beginning. You may not use it correctly, which may cause friction and discomfort. As a result, you will be afraid of the next use, which means it will affect your normal life. If you feel pain when re-inserting it, you should contact your doctor in time, because the pain may be caused by other factors. This article will share the reasons for pain during insertion and how to relieve it.

Common causes of pain during catheterization

Many reasons can cause pain during catheterization, and getting to know them can help you ease the pain.

Not considering the function of the catheter

• The design and function of the catheter have a direct impact on the comfort of catheterization. Using an inappropriate catheter may cause pain. Common reasons include:

• Inappropriate tip design

• The tip design of some catheters is not user-friendly and may cause irritation and discomfort when passing through the urethra. For example, the sharp edge may scratch the urethral wall, causing pain and bleeding.
  
  

Too large or too small diameter

The wrong diameter of the catheter can lead to excessive pressure or friction. For example, a large-size catheter will increase pressure in the urethra, while a catheter that is too small may cause a backflow of dirt.

Don't choose the right material

The material of the catheter can also affect comfort. Some materials may cause allergic reactions or irritation, increasing patient discomfort.

Urinary tract infection or other diseases

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the common complications of catheterization, which may cause patients to feel significant pain and discomfort during catheterization. Other related diseases may also cause pain, including:

Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra may cause pain, especially when the catheter is inserted.

Cystitis: Infection or inflammation of the bladder can also cause pain, especially when the bladder is full.

Prostate problems: Male patients may feel pain during catheterization due to prostate hyperplasia or inflammation.

Psychological factors

Many people feel nervous and afraid when they catheterize for the first time. This emotion may cause muscle tightness, which may increase the pain during catheterization. Uncertainty about the catheterization process and the expectation of pain may make patients feel more uneasy.

Other factors

In addition, the lubricant used during catheterization, the hygiene of the catheterization environment, and the technique of operation may also affect the pain. Ensuring that catheterization is performed in the appropriate environment and using the right lubricant can help reduce discomfort.

How to avoid pain?

To minimize pain during catheterization, you can take the following steps:

Use a comfortable catheter.

Coudé Tip Catheter

Some patients may find coudé tip catheters more comfortable than others. This is because the tip of this catheter is designed to pass more smoothly through the urethra, especially for patients who are bypassing any obstructions or strictures in the urethra. Your doctor will help you choose the right catheter for you based on your specific situation.

Hydrophilic Catheters

This catheter becomes smoother when it comes into contact with liquid, which can reduce friction and discomfort during catheterization. Hydrophilic catheters are pre-lubricated and designed for patients who have difficulty inserting them into the urethra. For both men and women, using hydrophilic catheters can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and provide maximum comfort during insertion and removal.

Polished Eye Catheters

The eye of this catheter is specially polished to reduce irritation during catheterization. You can also use this if you feel discomfort with other catheters.

Use lubricants on uncoated catheters

Lubricants can significantly increase the comfort of catheterization, especially with uncoated catheters. The proper use of lubricants can reduce friction and discomfort. 

Psychological counseling

Many patients may feel uncomfortable during the first attempt, please try to use the catheter later. Tips: Deep breaths can help relax your body and mind and relieve tension. Before catheterization, a hot water bottle to apply heat to help relax the muscles around the urethra. Finally, please keep a good attitude, it will make insertion smoother. 

How to choose the right catheter?

Common catheter materials

• Silicone: Silicone catheters have good flexibility and durability and are suitable for long-term use. Its smooth surface can reduce friction and reduce discomfort.

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): PVC catheters are usually used for short-term catheterization and are relatively cheap, but may not be as soft as silicone catheters and may cause discomfort after long-term use.

• Hydrophilic coating: Some catheters use hydrophilic coatings, which can become smoother after contact with liquids, reduce friction during insertion, and improve comfort.
  
  
  

Catheter design

The design of the catheter plays an important role in the comfort and effectiveness of the catheterization process. You can refer to the several catheters mentioned above. Choosing a catheter that is more in line with the physiological structure can significantly reduce the discomfort during catheterization.　

Ease of use

When choosing a catheter, you should also consider its ease of use:

• Disposable vs. reusable: Disposable catheters are easy to use and do not require sterilization, but the cost is relatively high; while reusable catheters require proper cleaning and sterilization procedures.

• Packaging and ease of use: Some catheters come with convenient packaging and instructions for use, making it easy for patients to operate at home.

Precautions before and after catheterization

Preparation and care before and after catheterization are important parts of reducing discomfort.

• Instruct patients on how to prepare and care to reduce discomfort

• Before catheterization: confirm that the required tools and materials are complete, ensure a clean environment, and use appropriate lubricants.

• After catheterization: pay attention to observe whether there are any abnormal symptoms, such as pain, bleeding, etc., and communicate with the doctor in time.

Improving the inserting experience

Knowing the reasons for pain during the insertion of a catheter and taking appropriate precautions can make the catheterization process smoother. In addition to the right catheter products, it is also important to master the correct insert tips. Bever Medical provides catheter products of different models and sizes. Besides, if you need professional support, we will help you cope with the challenges during the catheterization process. Any interests, please browse our website.