What is Intermittent Catheterization in Males?
Intermittent catheterization means removing urine (pee) from the bladder by placing a tube into the bladder. This is done when a child or adult is unable to empty their bladder on their own, when a child's bladder leaks urine, or when very high pressures have developed in the bladder.
When performing catheterization, it is important to prevent urinary tract infections. Extra urine in the bladder can grow germs. Chronic infections and high bladder pressures can damage the kidney over time.
Intermittent catheterization is not a difficult procedure. You cannot hurt the bladder if you follow the directions. Almost anyone can learn the technique, even a 7- or 8-year-old child.
Commonly Used Terms
Bladder
A muscular sac that holds urine until it is emptied from the body.
Bladder over-distention
A bladder filled beyond normal size.
Catheter
A tube used for emptying urine from the bladder.
Foreskin
A fold of skin covering the tip of the penis.
Lubricant
A water soluble, jelly-like substance used to prevent irritation. (Do not use a petroleum-based product, such as Vaseline. Use a product such as K-Y Jelly, which will not damage the catheter.)
Urethra
The tube in the body that carries urine from the bladder to the outside.
Void
To urinate or pee; to empty the bladder.
Normal Function of the Urinary Tract
Urine (the body's liquid waste) is made in the kidneys through a blood filtering process. Urine passes from the kidneys, down through the ureters and into the bladder. The bladder is an elastic muscle that acts as a storage tank. As the bladder fills, its walls relax to hold more urine and the sphincter muscle remains tight to prevent leakage of urine.
History of Intermittent Catheterization
It was first used in 1970 as a non-sterile self-technique used at home. Its effectiveness and safety have since been proven. It is used worldwide by thousands of people to manage bladder function.
