Female Catheters

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies. The first step in self-catheterization is to ensure that you have all of the supplies you will need. Depending on what type of catheter you have, this could include the catheter you intend to use, moist towelettes or soap and sterile water, a dry paper towel, lubricating jelly, and a toilet or drainage bag (plastic bag). If you have a catheter kit, all of the supplies you will need should be included for you.

Step 2: Wash Your Hands. In order to prevent catheter-associated UTIs, it is very important to make sure your hands are clean by washing them with an antiseptic, soap and water, or a moist towelette before beginning self-catheterization.

Step 3: Stop and Look at Your Catheter. Before you use your catheter, make sure that none of the packaging has been previously opened or damaged.

Step 4: Catheter Insertion. Put yourself in a comfortable position with your thighs spread apart. Some women prefer to sit on the toilet or a chair across from the toilet. Clean yourself by separating the labia (the lips or folds at the opening of your vagina) and wipe with a moist towelette. If you have an uncoated catheter, apply the lubricating jelly from the catheter’s tip to about two to four inches down the tube.

Use a mirror or your index finger to find the urethra (urethral opening) and slowly insert the end of the catheter into the urethra until urine flow begins to flow freely. If you encounter any resistance, take a few deep breaths and try again. Insertion may be slightly uncomfortable but should never be painful.

Step 5: Make Sure Your Bladder is Empty. When urine stops flowing, slowly begin to pull the catheter out. Rotate the catheter as you remove it and stop each time more urine begins to flow again. Pausing will help make sure your bladder drains completely.

Step 6: Clean Up. Once you have finished, dispose of your used catheter and supplies in a proper waste bin and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water or a moist towelette.

• Intermittent: A straight, uncoated catheter that requires lubrication to be applied to the catheter before it is inserted. 

• Compact: A catheter that is small and discreet. 

• Pre-lubricated: Also known as a coated catheter, this catheter comes pre-lubricated to help prevent any bacteria from entering the urinary tract and causing a urinary tract infection (UTI).

• Closed System: A pre-lubricated intermittent catheter that drains into a collection bag. 

• Indwelling/Foley Catheter: A closed sterile system catheter with a retention balloon inserted to keep the catheter in the bladder.