Self-catheterisation in male patients (CIC)

Q 1. What is self-catheterisation?

A. Self-catheterisation means that you insert a small, flexible plastic tube into the bladder. The urine flows out through this tube which is then removed.

By emptying the bladder regularly in this way, you will prevent a build-up of stagnant urine and should feel more comfortable.

You will also be keeping the kidneys and bladder healthy by preventing urinary infections.
Some people find that they have less difficulty preventing themselves becoming wet using this technique.

Q 2. What equipment do I need?

• A catheter, lignocaine jelly, Baby wipes
• A bottle, dish or plastic box to catch the urine

Q 3. How do I do it?

A.

Sit on a towel with a plastic sheet just underneath; some men prefer to perform self-catheterisation sitting on or even standing in front of the toilet

• Remove your pants and tuck other clothing out of the way
• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Roll back the foreskin and wash the end of the penis using baby wipes
• Hold the catheter two inches from its tip.
• Hold the penis straight out from the body and, without touching the catheter on anything else, slowly and gently insert it until urine flows
• If the catheter seems to stick just before it enters the bladder, wait a few seconds to allow the sphincter (valve) muscle to relax and then push it gently in a little further
• Withdraw the catheter slowly
• Rinse the catheter under running water, dry on a clean tissue and store in a clean plastic bag open to the air if possible