If you’re having trouble finding your urethra, place a finger from your non-dominant hand over your clitoris, and insert the catheter into the urethra below it.
If you insert the catheter into the vagina, leave that catheter in place. This will help you find the urethra when you try again with another catheter.
If the catheter does not go in easily, here are 4 things to try:
- Make sure that the catheter is well lubricated.
- Try to relax and breathe deeply.
- Change the angle of entering the urethra, like pointing the catheter further down or further up.
- Try a different position, like squatting, sitting, or lying down. See
Section 6: Positions for ISC.
If the catheter does not come out easily, here are 3 things to try:
- Relax and breathe deeply. Your muscles may have a spasm around the catheter.
- Try twisting the catheter in a circle and slowly pull it out.
- Cough slightly as you are pulling out the catheter.
What if there is blood?
Do not panic. It is common to see blood, as there is a good blood supply to the bladder and urethra. The place that is bleeding will heal quickly.
If there is always blood, or if your urine (pee) is bloody, have it checked out by your healthcare provider. You may have an infection.
Self-catheterization when travelling
Take enough catheters, supplies, and a change of underwear in a bag. Have some “clean” labelled bags for unused supplies and some “dirty” labelled bags for used supplies. Use disposable perineal wipes and hand sanitizers if you are unable to find clean water to wash your hands.
Ask your healthcare provider about using small, pre-lubricated catheters for travel.
