Urinary catheters

Authors: SCIRE Community Team | Reviewer: Bonnie Nybo | Published: 18 January 2018 | Updated: 16 October 2024

Urinary catheters are pieces of equipment that are used to drain urine from the bladder. There are many different ways that catheters are used.

Intermittent catheterization is when a catheter is inserted and removed through the urethra to drain the bladder at regular intervals throughout the day. Bladder emptying with intermittent catheterization must be done hygienically and on a regular schedule.

Intermittent catheterization is usually used by people who have enough hand function to perform the procedure independently. It is the closest method to normal bladder function, where the bladder fills continuously for a period of time and then empties all at once.

A diagram of an indwelling (Foley) catheter.⁴

Indwelling catheters (such as Foley catheters) are catheters that are inserted directly into the bladder and remain in place to continually drain the bladder. Indwelling catheters may be inserted through the urethra (urethral catheters) or through a surgically created hole through the abdomen (suprapubic catheters).

An example of a condom catheter, for male use.⁵

Indwelling catheters are usually used if inserting your own catheter independently is difficult or there are concerns about leaking between sessions of emptying.

Condom catheters are catheters that resemble a condom and are placed over the penis and connected through tubes to a collection device. Condom catheters are usually used by people that leak in between emptying or for individuals who have the ability to trigger emptying by causing a spasm of their bladder (reflex voiding).

One of the main concerns of condom catheters is incomplete bladder drainage, which can cause kidney damage. A careful medical examination is needed to ensure that condom catheters are a safe option for use.

Refer to our article on Urinary Catheters for more information!

Some people may use medical “penis pouches” (loosely fitted bags that can be placed around the penis), pads, or other devices to catch small leaks in between catheterizations. These will depend on the person and their risk of other problems like pressure injuries, and should be discussed in detail with your health providers before use.