(All fields required)
Please enter a valid email.
Please enter your name.
Intermittent catheterization was first used in 1970 as a home, nonsterile self-technique. Its effectiveness and safety have since been proven. It is used worldwide.
Thousands of people use the technique to manage bladder function.
The catheter may not be inserted far enough, may be blocked or the bladder may be having a spasm.
It usually indicates a mild bladder or urethral irritation. It will usually clear by itself. If blood persists or is associated with trouble passing the catheter, contact your doctor. You should never have to force a catheter into the bladder. Lubricate the catheter with water soluble lubrication to reduce urethral trauma.
Get a watch with an alarm on it or have your child write a secret message to himself or herself and tape it on a desk or lunch box. Tell the teacher so that your child can have silent permission to leave the classroom to go to the bathroom at the scheduled time. The school or school nurse may need a note from your doctor.
Most people who catheterize have bacteria in their bladders and still feel well. The presence of bacteria alone does not mean an active infection is present. If the urine culture is positive and your child is feeling well, treatment may not be necessary.
Constipation may be a problem and may make catheterization harder. The bladder does not have enough room to function properly. Let your doctor know if this is a continuing problem.
Last Updated: 11/2009
