Treatment Overview
Catheters used to manage urinary incontinence include:
- Standard catheter. This is a thin,
flexible, hollow tube that is inserted through the
urethra into the bladder and allows the urine to drain
out. The standard catheter is used for
intermittent self-catheterization.
- Indwelling Foley catheter. This type of catheter, which
remains in place continuously, has a balloon on the end that is inflated with
sterile water after the end is inside the bladder. The inflated balloon
prevents the catheter from slipping out.
Urinary tract infections are more likely to occur with
long-term use of an
indwelling catheter than with intermittent self-catheterization. To learn more, see the topic
Care for an Indwelling Urinary Catheter.
- Condom catheter or Texas catheter. This is a special condom that fits over the penis and is
attached to a tube that collects urine.
Condom catheters are only for short-term use, because long-term use increases
the risk of
urinary tract infections, damage to the penis from
friction with the condom, and urethral blockage.
What To Expect After Treatment
Catheterization may cause some discomfort during the procedure. A
condom or Texas catheter does not cause much discomfort, because it is not
inserted into the urethra, but indwelling catheters may cause some discomfort
while in place.
Why It Is Done
Catheters can be used to treat severe incontinence that cannot be
managed with medicines or surgery.
How Well It Works
Catheters do not cure incontinence but rather allow you or a
caregiver to manage incontinence.
These devices are effective. But some men find catheters
uncomfortable or painful and stop using them.
Risks
Using a catheter increases your risk for:
What To Think About
The use of catheters can be under your control and can be designed
to fit into your lifestyle.
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Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerElizabeth T. Russo, MD - Internal Medicine