Intermittent Self-Catheterization (Female)

What can I do to keep my bladder healthy?

Drink 6 to 8 cups a day of ﬂuids that don’t irritate the bladder. 1 cup is equal to 250 mL.

Water is your best choice. If you don’t drink enough fluids, your urine (pee) will become concentrated and can irritate your bladder.

Other things that irritate the bladder:

Caffeine (including coffee, tea, and cola)
Carbonated drinks, like pop and bubbly water (including “diet” pop or carbonated drinks)
Nicotine
Acidic foods and drinks, like apple, orange, lemon, and lime
Spicy foods
Tomato-based foods, including sauces, juices, and fresh tomatoes

Try to limit how much of these foods and drinks you have.

Some medicines can also irritate the bladder. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the medicines you take.

Current as of: September 26, 2023

Author: Women’s Health, Alberta Health Services

This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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