Kidney, Bladder and Genitals Tests and Procedures

Urinary Catheter Removal

Related Services

Urology

What will my child experience after a urinary catheter is removed?

If your child had a urinary catheter inserted for a test, he/she may experience one or more of the following symptoms once the catheter has been removed.

Burning

Your child may complain of a slight feeling of burning when he/she urinates after the catheter is removed. This is normal. If the feeling of burning continues for more than one day, call your child's healthcare provider.

Urination

You may see a slight amount of pink-colored urine the first time your child urinates after the catheter is removed. This is from a small amount of blood in the urine. If you notice any bright blood in the urine after the first time your child urinates, call your child's healthcare provider.

It may be slightly difficult for your child to urinate the first time he/she tries after the catheter is removed. If your child has difficulty, try placing him/her in a tub of warm water to urinate. The water level in the tub should be enough to cover your child's genitals. Important: Never leave a young child in the tub alone.

Have your child drink a lot of liquids like water or apple juice to help him/her urinate. Stay away from soda pop or citrus juices. If he/she is unable to urinate after 6-8 hours, call your child's healthcare provider.

Swelling

If your child's lower belly is swollen or he/she complains of pain in the belly after the test is over, call your child's healthcare provider.

Discomfort

It is possible that during the procedure your child may experience some discomfort. Please tell the doctor, nurse or technologist if significant or prolonged pain occurs so it can be evaluated and you can be referred to your child's primary doctor.

Call your child's doctor

If you have any other questions or concerns about your child after he/she has had a urinary catheter inserted for a test
For questions about the test results