Women who suffer from severe incontinence can find lasting relief from the use of urinary catheters. These catheters are hollow, malleable tubes that funnel urine from the bladder to collection bags. Silicone is the catheter of choice for short-term catheterization and for patients who are allergic to latex. Latex is most commonly used for long-term catheterization, although long-term catheters can also be made of rubber and plastic/PVC. Women are more likely than men to suffer from urinary incontinence, which is why understanding the basics of these medical devices is important. Women must talk with their doctors to determine which catheters are best for their needs. Here, we'll go over basic questions and answers that can help you learn more about urinary catheters for women.
Also known as intermittent catheters, these are used for women who need immediate assistance emptying their bladders. They’re removed once the bladder has been relieved of urine.
Also known as a Foley catheter, indwelling catheters are inserted into the bladder through the urethra. Once inside, a small balloon located at the tip of the catheter is inflated to prevent the tube from slipping. When the catheter is no longer necessary, the balloon can be deflated for removal. Foley catheters can be used in both short and long-term applications.
Catheters are used both diagnostically and therapeutically. Doctors may recommend that women use catheters for monitoring urine production, imaging the urinary tract and collecting hygienic urine specimens. Therapeutic indications for women include chronic blockage of urine, leading to hydronephrosis, facilitating constant bladder irrigation and acute urinary retention.
Introducing a catheter to a sterile environment, such as the urinary tract, increases one’s risk for a UTI, kidney, or blood infection. Postmenopausal patients are of greater risk for UTIs than younger females. For patients whose catheters are changed out repeatedly, care must be taken during insertion and removal to avoid scarring or narrowing of the urethra. Bladder stones and kidney damage are also a possibility for long-term indwelling catheter patients.
Proper catheter size and sufficient lubricant is of the utmost importance to prevent trauma to the urinary tract. To prevent infection, patients must drink plenty of water, ensure the catheter bag is always lower than the bladder, and fully drain the bladder, particularly after sexual intercourse. Women should practice good hygiene, washing the affected area regularly with mild soap and warm water.
Catheters should be washed, at a minimum, twice a day. Warm, soapy water and a clean towel should be used for each washing. Patients should begin washing at the ends near their vaginas, moving slowly down the catheters. Using a second towel, gently dry the tubing once washing is complete.
Taping is the most common stabilizing method for women. Several pieces of tape are secured to her upper leg, keeping it in place. Velcro straps, also known as catheter straps, also help prevent "traumatic removal.” Adhesive anchors, which work similar to taping, have also gained popularity recently.
Alternative options vary, depending upon the needs of the patient. Some women prefer wearing pads to absorb urine, while others have found success through behavioral therapy such as "programmed toileting." A suprapubic catheter can also be surgically inserted into the bladder as a more permanent solution.