How to Use a Coudé Catheter?

When a patient experiences prostate enlargement, doctors may recommend using a Coudé catheter. So, what is the Coudé catheter? Types? How to use it? etc. In this article, Bever Medical will share practical information about using a Coudé catheter and step-by-step guidance with you.

Let's get started with the basics of the Coudé catheter and who needs it. If you already know them, please skip ahead to our guide below.

What is a Coudé Catheter?

The Coudé catheter is a catheter used for intermittent urinary catheterization. It is also called a curved tip catheter or Tiemann catheter because of its curved tip. The curved tip allows the catheter to bypass obstacles and help navigate in areas where a straight catheter would be difficult to pass. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for patients who have difficulty using a regular straight catheter.

Types of Coudé Catheters

Several types of catheters are available to meet patients'different needs and preferences now. Most catheter types offer either a Coudé tip or a straight tip, each designed for specific needs:

1. Hydrophilic Catheters: These have a hydrophilic coating that, when moistened, creates lubrication to reduce friction against the urethra walls, providing a smoother and more comfortable experience. Both Coudé and straight tips are available, ideal for patients sensitive to insertion or with special comfort requirements.

2. Intermittent Catheters: For patients seeking greater independence or those frequently affected by urinary tract infections (UTIs), intermittent catheters are a preferred choice as they reduce infection risks compared to indwelling catheters. If a straight-tipped intermittent catheter proves challenging to insert, doctors often recommend a Coudé-tipped version for easier passage through narrow areas, providing a more comfortable experience.

3. Closed System Catheters: These come with a small bag to collect urine, making them convenient for travel or patients with limited mobility. Closed system catheters are available with both Coudé and straight tips, which help minimize infection risks and support sterile operation.

The Coudé tip catheter is especially beneficial for patients with narrow urethras or enlarged prostates, as the angled design helps it pass through blocked areas more smoothly. If you find using a straight-tip catheter uncomfortable or ineffective, consult your doctor to determine if a Coudé tip better suits your needs.

Who Needs a Coudé Catheter?

Patients of any gender can use a Coudé catheter, but it's more commonly used by males. Following people need to use coude catheter.

The curved tip of the Coudé catheter helps bypass urethral blockages caused by an enlarged prostate, making insertion easier.

For patients with a narrow or abnormal urethra, the Coudé design is better suited for navigating these restricted areas. Such a design can reduce difficulty and discomfort during insertion.

Patients who are with bladder diverticulum or bladder neck stricture. The upward curve of the Coudé tip helps easier guidance, and the catheter enters the bladder more accurately.

For those who have experienced difficulty with other catheters, a Coudé catheter may be a more suitable solution.

How to Use the Coudé Catheter

Unlike standard straight catheters, the Coudé catheter has an upward-curving tip to facilitate smoother insertion. Many Coudé catheters now include guiding markers, and medical professionals often provide training materials before use.

Self-Catheterization Steps

Maintaining hygiene is crucial for self-catheterization, whether using a straight or Coudé tip catheter. Follow these steps:

1. Handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an antibacterial hand sanitizer.

2. Clean the Area: Gently clean the insertion area with an alcohol-free disinfectant wipe.

3. Prepare the Catheter: Open the catheter packaging and lubricate it if it’s not pre-lubricated.

4. Positioning: Find a comfortable position, ensure the Coudé tip angle is correct, and insert the catheter into the urethra.

5. Insert the Catheter: Slowly slide the catheter forward until it reaches the bladder. You’ll feel some resistance as it approaches the bladder sphincter. Continue inserting until urine begins to flow.

6. Remove the Catheter: Once the urine flow stops and the bladder is empty, gently remove the catheter and dispose of it properly.

Differences Between Male and Female Use of a Coudé Catheter

1. Insertion Depth  

Due to the longer urethra, men usually need to insert the catheter about 20 cm deep. Ensure the tip is facing upward, insert slowly, and gently push through the bladder sphincter until urine flows.

Women typically need to insert the catheter about 5–7 cm to reach the bladder. Keep the catheter tip positioned correctly to avoid irritation to surrounding tissues.

2. Positioning Adjustments  

Men may catheterize while standing, sitting, or in a half-squat position. Standing maintains the catheter angle for easier insertion, while sitting provides better control over hand movements.

Women usually prefer sitting or half-squatting for better access to the urethra. Sitting offers stability and a clear view.

3. Cleaning the Area  

While the cleaning steps are similar, note the following:

Women should pay extra attention to the vulvar area to avoid transferring bacteria to the urethra.

Men should gently retract the foreskin (if present) and clean around the urethral opening.

4. Insertion Tips

Men: Men's urethras have two curved areas that may cause slight resistance during insertion. If resistance occurs, pause and avoid forcing the catheter. Take deep breaths to relax, then gently adjust the angle and continue.

Women: Since the female urethra is typically straight, insertion is usually smoother, but ensure the angle is right to avoid discomfort.

Is a Coudé Catheter Right for You?

If you find other types of catheters difficult or uncomfortable, it is wise to consult your doctor to see if a coudé catheter might be a better fit. She or he can help you determine the most suitable type of Coudé catheter according to your condition.

Choosing the Right Coudé Catheter

Bever Medical offers a variety of high-quality intermittent catheters, including both Coudé and straight-tip options, as well as hydrophilic or pre-lubricated types. Besides, we offer a selection of materials, including PVC and silicone, and offer OEM services. If you’re interested in other catheterization products, welcome to visit our website now.