How to Self-Catheterize Safely and Reduce the Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

For many people living with urinary retention, neurogenic bladder, spinal cord injuries,
multiple sclerosis, enlarged prostate, or other bladder conditions, self-catheterization
can be an essential part of daily life. While the idea may seem intimidating at first,
learning proper catheterization techniques can help you empty your bladder safely,
comfortably, and with a lower risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

This guide explains how to self-catheterize correctly, highlights important differences
between male and female catheterization, and shares practical tips to help reduce
infection risk.

What Is Self-Catheterization?
Self-catheterization — also called clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) — involves
inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the urethra to drain urine from the
bladder.
Unlike indwelling catheters that remain in place, intermittent catheters are inserted
several times per day and removed immediately after use. Many healthcare
professionals recommend intermittent catheterization because it may reduce
complications compared to long-term indwelling catheters.

Why Preventing UTIs Matters
People who use urinary catheters may have a higher risk of developing urinary tract
infections because bacteria can enter the urinary tract during catheter insertion.
Common symptoms of a UTI include:

• Burning during urination
  
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  
• Fever or chills
  
• Increased urgency or frequency
  
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
  
• Fatigue or confusion (especially in older adults)

The good news is that following proper catheterization techniques and hygiene
practices can significantly reduce the risk.

Supplies You’ll Need
Before starting, gather all supplies in a clean area:

• Sterile intermittent catheter
  
• Water-based lubricant (if catheter is not pre-lubricated)
  
• Soap and warm water or cleansing wipes
  
• Disposable gloves (optional)
  
• Mirror (especially helpful for female users)
  
• Clean towel
  
• Collection container or toilet access

Many users prefer hydrophilic catheters because they come pre-lubricated and may
help reduce friction and irritation.

General Steps for Safe Self-Catheterization
Regardless of sex, these core principles are important:
1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Hand hygiene is one of the most important ways to prevent UTIs.
Wash with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before handling your catheter.

2. Clean the Genital Area
Use mild soap and water or approved cleansing wipes to clean around the urethral
opening.
Always wipe:

• Front to back for females
  
• From the urethral opening outward for males

3. Lubricate the Catheter
If the catheter is not pre-lubricated, apply a water-based lubricant to reduce discomfort
and minimize urethral irritation.

4. Insert the Catheter Slowly and Gently
Never force the catheter. If resistance occurs, pause, relax, and try again slowly.

5. Fully Drain the Bladder
Allow urine to stop flowing completely before slowly removing the catheter.

6. Dispose Properly
Dispose of single-use catheters immediately.

Self-Catheterization for Males
Male catheterization may involve additional challenges due to the longer urethra and
prostate anatomy.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Men
1. Position Yourself Comfortably
Common positioning includes:

• Standing in front of a toilet
• Sitting on the toilet
• Sitting in a wheelchair

2. Hold the Penis Upward
Gently hold the penis at a 60–90 degree angle from the body. This helps straighten the
urethra for easier catheter insertion.

3. Clean the Tip of the Penis
If uncircumcised, gently retract the foreskin before cleaning.
Use circular motions starting at the urethral opening and moving outward.

4. Insert the Lubricated Catheter
Slowly insert the catheter into the urethra.
You may feel slight resistance near the prostate or sphincter muscles. Take slow deep
breaths and continue gently without forcing.
Continue inserting until urine begins to flow.

5. Advance Slightly Further
Once urine starts flowing, advance the catheter another inch or two to ensure proper
bladder drainage.

6. Remove Slowly
After drainage stops, slowly withdraw the catheter. Pause if more urine begins to flow.
If uncircumcised, return the foreskin to its natural position afterward.

Self-Catheterization for Females
Female catheterization may require locating the urethra carefully, especially for
beginners.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Women

1. Find a Comfortable Position
Common positions include:

• Sitting on the toilet
  
• Standing with one foot elevated
  
• Reclining with knees bent
  Using a mirror can help during the learning process.

2. Separate the Labia
With one hand, gently separate the labia to expose the urethral opening.

3. Clean Front to Back
Always clean from front to back to reduce the spread of bacteria from the rectal area.

4. Insert the Lubricated Catheter
Slowly insert the catheter upward into the urethra.
The female urethra is shorter than the male urethra, so urine may begin flowing after
only a few inches.

5. Allow the Bladder to Empty
Hold the catheter in place until urine flow completely stops.

6. Remove Slowly
Withdraw the catheter gently and slowly.
Dispose of the catheter according to instructions.

Tips to Help Prevent UTIs While Self-Catheterizing

Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, aim for regular fluid intake throughout the
day.

Catheterize on Schedule
Avoid allowing the bladder to become overly full, which can increase infection risk.
Your healthcare provider may recommend catheterizing every 4–6 hours.

Avoid Touching the Catheter Tip
Keep the insertion end sterile or as clean as possible during handling.

Use the Right Catheter Size
Improper catheter sizing may cause trauma or incomplete drainage.
Always use the size prescribed by your healthcare professional.

Watch for Signs of Infection
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Fever
• Pain
  
• Blood in urine
  
• Increased bladder spasms
  
• Foul-smelling urine
  
• Difficulty catheterizing

Consider Hydrophilic or Closed-System Catheters
Some users may benefit from:

• Hydrophilic catheters that reduce friction
  
• Closed-system catheters designed to minimize contamination
  These options may be especially useful for people with recurrent UTIs.

Common Questions About Self-Catheterization
Does Self-Catheterization Hurt?
It may feel uncomfortable initially, but it should not be painful. Proper lubrication and
gentle technique help improve comfort over time.

How Often Should I Catheterize?
Frequency varies by individual. Many people catheterize 4–6 times daily, depending on
bladder function and fluid intake.

Can I Travel with Catheters?
Yes. Many catheter products are discreet and portable. Carry extra supplies and hand
sanitizer when away from home.

Final Thoughts
Learning to self-catheterize safely takes practice, patience, and proper instruction. By
maintaining good hygiene, using proper technique, and following a regular
catheterization schedule, many people can successfully manage their bladder health
while lowering the risk of urinary tract infections.
If you are new to intermittent catheterization or experiencing recurring UTIs, speak with
your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and catheter recommendations.
At SCI Supply Inc., we’re committed to helping individuals access reliable continence
and catheterization products that support comfort, independence, and quality of life.