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"Very discreet. Easy to use and small enough to dispose of without embarrassment."

MRS KIMBERLEY CHAMBERS

"I have used this product when out it is very discreet and convenient. Especially with the pouch and clip making it very discreet for carrying. This blue rubber grip is also very helpful as I have some dexterity problems, all together a handy and easy to use product."

MALCOLM CORBETT

When you first begin using an intermittent catheter, there may be many questions you want to ask. Wherever possible, you should seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Answers to some frequently asked questions are listed below. If you cannot find the information you need please contact our live advisors, email info@clinimed.co.uk or call the CliniMed Careline on 0808 1596017.

How often should I use my intermittent catheter?

How often you use your intermittent catheter depends on the individual, the reason for catheterisation, how much fluid you drink and whether you have been prescribed additional medication. Your healthcare professional will have discussed this with you and how many times a day you need to catheterise.

Does ISC hurt?

It may feel like a strange sensation at first, but intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) should not be painful. For some people, the urethra is sensitive when first learning and if this does not settle with time then ask for advice. It is normal for some people to find ISC difficult to begin with but after a very short time and with a little practice you will find it very straightforward.

Will I always have to catheterise from now on?

This will depend on the underlying reason for catheterisation. Sometimes ISC is a temporary measure until your bladder regains its normal function. You should report any changes in drainage volumes or pattern of passing urine to your healthcare professional who will review the clinical need for continuing intermittent self-catheterisation or altering the frequency.

What should I do if I can’t insert the intermittent catheter?

If you have tried and failed to insert your intermittent catheter, do your best not to worry or panic as this is a fairly common problem and leave it around 20 minutes before trying again. Try to relax, as much as you can, as this is key to successful insertion. Do not try to force the catheter in as this can damage your urethra. If you still can’t manage to insert the intermittent catheter, then contact your healthcare professional or the out of hours number you have been given.

What if there is no urine coming out of the catheter?

If there is no urine draining, remove the intermittent catheter and try a new one. Make sure you are putting the catheter in the right place. If there is still no urine drainage and you feel your bladder is still full, then contact your healthcare professional.

What should I do if I can’t remove my intermittent catheter?

Try not to panic and stay calm, your intermittent catheter can occasionally become stuck if you are tense and your muscles go into spasm. Relax for 5-10 minutes to allow muscles to loosen up. Coughing several times as you begin to remove the catheter can also help. If none of these suggestions work then you should seek medical advice.

What if I see blood after catheterisation?

Don’t worry. It is very common to see a few drops of blood around the tip of the catheter when you have finished intermittent self-catheterisation, or some pinkish discolouration of your urine. However, if bleeding is continuous or heavy then seek medical advice.

Are there any UTI symptoms I should look out for?

Symptoms such as fever, uncontrollable shivering, blood in urine, cloudy urine, burning sensation on catheterising, unpleasant smell from urine, tummy or lower back pain, may indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI). You may not experience all of the symptoms of a UTI but it is important that, if you suspect that you have a UTI, you contact your healthcare professional.

What should I do if I forget to catheterise?

You must use your intermittent catheter as soon as you remember. Then continue as normal at the regular intervals you have been advised.

What happens if I do not catheterise as regularly as I was told to?

Do not allow your bladder to become too full as you may find you have the following symptoms if you do: tenderness and bloating around the lower stomach, headache, feeling hot and sweaty. Occasionally forgetting to catheterise will not matter but if this happens too often it can cause urinary tract infection (UTI) and urinary leakage. Should the pressure in your bladder become too high there may be a risk of urine backflow to your kidneys, which could lead to complications.

What happens when I travel abroad?

When travelling, pack as many intermittent catheters as you will need for the duration of your holiday or business trip. To avoid any possible problems with customs, ask your healthcare professional for a written statement explaining that the catheters are necessary for medical reasons and are for your own use. It is also a good idea to keep a good supply in your hand luggage should your suitcase go missing.

What if the catheter goes into my vagina by mistake?

If your intermittent catheter accidentally enters your vagina during catheterisation, simply remove the catheter and dispose of it, then start again with a new catheter.

What about catheterisation during my period?

Good hygiene during menstruation is always important. This is no different with intermittent self-catheterisation. Every time you catheterise yourself, you should wash your genital area with a mild soap and rinse well; if you are having your period, you should change your tampon or sanitary pad often.

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