People using catheterization for the first time are usually filled with fear; actually, the first time is only to make them feel discomfort. If you feel pain during insertion, this is a signal from your body. The pain may be due to issues with the size, material, or technique used, or it could be a urinary tract infection. There are expert tips in this article that can help you have a pain-free catheterization process.  What Cause Intermittent Catheter Pain? Self-catheterizing incorrectly is not the only one reason cause you pain; both the wrong size and the wrong type are the culprits. To catheter right, you should practice more and easier. Besides, ask your healthcare provider for professional advice on the intermittent catheters. Tip 1: Choose the Right Intermittent Catheter Reducing catheter pain involves matching the intermittent catheter to the patient and use case. The wrong size or tough material can cause burning, pressure, or bleeding. Please ask your clinician for the right French size and length for male, female, or pediatric use. If a straight catheter causes too much pain or gets stuck, you may need a different tip. Straight tips are for most standard urethras. And a coudé or curved tip has a slightly curved tip. They help the catheter go around blockages like an enlarged prostate or scar tissue. It is commonly used by men who self-catheterize due to conditions like urinary retention or urinary incontinence, especially when straight tips are difficult to insert. Also, check your French size. This is the diameter of the tube. If the tube is too big, it will stretch your urethra and hurt. Your doctor can help you find the perfect size for your body. Tip2: Use Plenty of Lubrication Friction is a major cause of pain during insertion. If you use a standard uncoated intermittent catheter, you must use lubricating jelly. This jelly helps the tube slide in and out without tugging on your skin. Pay attention, some people need a lot of lubricant, while others need only a little. You can also try other options: Hydrophilic intermittent catheters: These have a special coating that becomes slippery when wet. Pre-lubricated intermittent catheters: When you use them, you don't have to mess with messy gel packets. Tip3: Relax and Take Your Time Even if you're using the best catheters, being nervous and technique will make your muscles tight. Tight muscles make it very hard to insert the catheter. Before you start, take deep breaths to calm your body. Besides, rushing can lead to injuries or bleeding. Find a position that you're comfortable with, such as sitting on the toilet or standing with one leg up.  If you feel resistance, stop and try to relax before moving forward. For men, keep the penis gently straight or slightly raised; for women, clear visualization and correct urethral location are key. Importantly, allow the bladder to empty fully before removal and withdraw slowly to avoid spasms and irritation. Nurses report that clear teaching, home‑based training when possible, and time to practice greatly reduce anxiety and perceived catheter pain. Tip 4: Prevent Trauma with Thoughtful Catheter Design Device design can directly lower the risk of puncture, abrasion, and high negative pressure — all common causes of catheter pain. Features that help: Soft, rounded, or flanged tips enlarge the contact area and reduce the chance of puncture in delicate tissue. Smooth, staggered side eyelets improve urine flow and minimize scraping along the urethral wall. Multiple small suction holes instead of one large port can spread the suction force and protect the mucosa in the airway or suction catheters. For example, a suction catheter with a flanged tip and two tiny holes spreads pressure and reduces puncture risk while still clearing secretions. Similar principles apply to urinary catheters used in emergency and military settings, where fast yet safe insertion is critical. Tip 5: Watch for Complications and When to Change Products Persistent catheter pain may mean infection, wrong catheter type, bladder spasms, or urethral injury. You should pay attention to the following signals: New bleeding, strong burning, or sudden sharp pain on insertion or removal. Repeated bladder spasms, leaks around the catheter, or frequent blockage. Recurrent urinary tract infections or fever. In these cases, clinicians may: Adjust the size, length, or tip shape of the intermittent catheter. Switch to a softer material or a different coating. Add medications for bladder spasms or treat infection. For facilities and OEM buyers, this is a strong reason to work with a supplier who offers a full catalog of intermittent catheters and can customize design to patient groups and clinical feedback. Tip 6: Match Products to High‑Risk Settings In emergency rooms, ambulances, and combat care, there is little time, but catheter pain and trauma still matter. Rough insertion under stress can cause long‑term problems. We suggest using robust yet flexible PVC catheters with clear size markings and kink‑resistant shafts. For female patients, having a ready-to-use catheter set for women can further improve efficiency and safety by providing all essential components in a sterile, organized format—helping caregivers work quickly while reducing the risk of contamination. Tip 7: Drink Water and Stay Clean Hygiene is very important. Always wash your hands before touching your medical supplies. Infections like CAUTI (catheter-associated urinary tract infection) are a big reason for pain.  For women in particular, using single-use catheters for women can significantly reduce the risk of contamination and infection by eliminating the need for cleaning and reuse. Also, drink plenty of water. Water keeps your urinary system healthy and flushes out bacteria. It also helps prevent irritation and inflammation in your bladder, making catheterization more comfortable. Wrapping Up Don't ignore the pain signals from your body. Through the right intermittent catheter, the insertion technique, and good hygiene habits, you can enjoy using an intermittent catheter. If you're looking for safe and quality catheter solutions, contact your reliable supplier, Bever Medical. We supply intermittent catheters for women and men with OEM services. 

Cold temperatures bring challenges to catheter care, it creates conditions that can greatly increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)for people relying on intermittent catheterization. Dry air, heavier clothing, disrupted routines, and reduced fluid intake all work against good bladder health. However, most winter-related UTI risks are preventable. With the right care strategy, you can protect your urinary health throughout the cold months. Here are 7 practical tips from Bever Medical, helping you navigate winter with comfort.  Why Winter Increases UTI Risk for Catheter Users A catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the catheter. While intermittent catheters have a lower risk than indwelling catheters, winter conditions can raise that risk due to: Reduced hydration, leading to concentrated urine Dry, cracked skin that allows bacteria to enter Heavy or layered clothing that traps moisture Disrupted hygiene routines during travel or holidays Fewer or delayed catheterization sessions Getting to know these seasonal factors is the first step toward prevention.   Tip 1: Stay Hydrated Cold winter always keep people away from water, because cold weather suppresses thirst. However, dehydration is the main reason for users of intermittent catheters for men during the winter months. When fluid intake is low, urine becomes concentrated and remains in the bladder longer, creating an ideal environment for bacteria. So, what to do to lower the risk? Bever Medical, as an experienced single-use catheter manufacturer, suggests: Aim for at least 2 liters per day, unless otherwise directed by your doctor Use reminders or hydration apps to stay consistent Choose warm options like herbal tea, warm lemon water, or low-sodium broth Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which irritate the bladder Pro tip: Pale yellow urine is a good sign of adequate hydration. Tip 2: Don't Delay Catheterization Because of Heavy Clothing Layers of thermals, trousers, and coats can make catheterization feel inconvenient—especially in public restrooms. But delaying your schedule can cause bladder over-distension, urine reflux, and infection. The practical way is: Stick to your catheterization schedule, no matter the season Choose adaptive or easy-access clothing when possible Plan ahead by identifying warm, accessible restrooms when traveling Tip 3: Prioritize Hand Hygiene During Flu Season   Winter is the peak season for viruses and bacteria. High-contact surfaces increase the risk of transferring germs to your catheter during insertion. Following these tips helps prevent you from bacterial risks: Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Dry thoroughly using a clean towel Apply fragrance-free moisturizer to prevent cracked skin, which can harbor bacteria Tip 4: Use Single-Use, Sterile Catheters With your immune system already under seasonal stress, winter is not the time to reuse catheters. Single-use catheters significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination. What to do: Use a new, sterile catheter for every insertion Consider switching to a closed-system catheter if available Dispose of used catheters properly after each use Pro tip: Single-use systems provide an extra layer of protection during high-risk months.   Tip 5: Ensure Proper Lubrication to Prevent Micro-Trauma Cold temperatures and indoor heating can dry out mucosal tissue and thicken lubricants. Inadequate lubrication increases friction, causing tiny urethral tears that allow bacteria to enter. You can: Use sufficient, high-quality catheter lubricant Warm lubricant packets in an inner pocket before use Consider hydrophilic-coated catheters for smoother insertion Pro tip: Store lubricating gel catheters or gel packets in an inner pocket before use to bring them to body temperature. Tip 6: Consider Tiemann Catheters if Insertion Becomes Difficult Cold weather can cause muscles to tense, making catheter insertion harder—especially for men with enlarged prostates or urethral narrowing. In such cases, using a Tiemann catheter for men may provide a solution. Before using, please consider these conditions: Never force insertion Speak with your urologist if resistance increases Ask whether Tiemann-tip catheters are appropriate for your needs Note: Please use the right catheter to reduce trauma and infection risk.  Tip 7: Support Bladder Health from the Inside Your bladder environment matters. Supporting it nutritionally can help reduce infection risk. Helpful habits: Vitamin C or cranberry supplements (if approved by your doctor) Limit alcohol during holiday gatherings Eat hydrating foods like soups, fruits, and vegetables Final Thoughts Cold winter weather shouldn't be a source of urinary tract infections. When using a catheter, you can safely get through the winter by staying well-hydrated, maintaining good personal hygiene, and using the appropriate catheter. At Bever Medical, our catheter products are dedicated to helping you feel comfortable all year round. For more questions about care and products, please feel free to contact us or check out our blog.

Choosing the right intermittent catheter is a critical part of effective bladder management. While intermittent catheterization (IC) is widely recognized as a safer alternative to long-term indwelling catheterization, the clinical benefits of IC depend heavily on selecting the appropriate catheter design, material, and configuration for each use scenario. For healthcare providers, distributors, and procurement professionals, understanding how different catheter features affect safety, comfort, and usability is essential.   Understand the Patient and Use Environment   The first step in choosing the right intermittent catheter is understanding who will use it and in what setting. Intermittent catheterization is commonly prescribed for patients with neurogenic bladder, postoperative urinary retention, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or certain congenital urological conditions. Equally important is the care environment. A catheter used in a hospital or rehabilitation center may prioritize standardization and cost efficiency, while home-care users often value ease of use, portability, and discreet packaging. Patients who self-catheterize multiple times a day typically require catheters designed to minimize friction and handling complexity. There is no universal solution effective catheter selection always balances patient needs, clinical goals, and practical use conditions. Select the Appropriate Catheter Size (CH)   Catheter size, commonly measured in Charrière (CH), plays a key role in both comfort and drainage efficiency. A catheter that is too large may cause discomfort or urethral irritation, while one that is too small may result in slow drainage or blockage. Most adult intermittent catheter users fall within CH 12 to CH 16, though individual anatomy and clinical guidance should always determine final selection. Pediatric patients require smaller sizes, and consistency in sizing is especially important for long-term users. From a procurement perspective, offering a complete range of CH sizes ensures flexibility and reduces the risk of inappropriate substitution.   Choose the Right Material: Medical-Grade PVC   Medical-grade PVC remains one of the most widely used materials for intermittent catheters due to its reliability, safety profile, and cost-effectiveness. Advances in material processing allow modern PVC catheters to achieve an optimal balance between flexibility and column strength. This balance is essential: the catheter must be soft enough to reduce discomfort while remaining firm enough to allow controlled insertion. For manufacturers and OEM partners, PVC also offers advantages in scalability, consistent quality, and compatibility with various designs and coatings. Consider Hydrophilic vs. Non-Hydrophilic Catheters   Surface lubrication is a key factor in patient comfort and urethral protection. Hydrophilic intermittent catheters feature a coating that becomes highly lubricious when activated, significantly reducing friction during insertion and removal.   Hydrophilic catheters are particularly suitable for: Long-term IC users Patients who catheterize multiple times per day Home-care and self-catheterization scenarios Ready-to-use hydrophilic catheters further simplify the process by eliminating the need for additional lubricant, reducing preparation steps and potential handling errors. Non-hydrophilic catheters may still be appropriate in certain institutional settings, especially when external lubrication is standard practice and cost considerations are a priority. Evaluate Tip Design: Straight or Coudé   Tip configuration directly affects ease of insertion. Straight-tip catheters are suitable for most standard catheterization procedures and are widely used across healthcare settings. Coudé-tip catheters, with a curved tip design, are often preferred for male patients with anatomical challenges such as urethral narrowing or prostate enlargement. Providing both options allows healthcare professionals to tailor catheter choice to patient anatomy, reducing resistance and improving overall experience. Packaging and Sterility Matter   Intermittent catheters are typically single-use, sterile devices. Packaging plays a vital role in maintaining sterility while supporting ease of use. Individually packaged catheters help reduce contamination risk and simplify inventory control in hospitals and clinics. For home-care users, compact and discreet packaging improves portability and confidence, especially for active patients. Clear labeling, consistent packaging formats, and multilingual instructions are also important considerations for international distribution. Regulatory Compliance and Supply Reliability   When choosing intermittent catheters for institutional use or market distribution, regulatory compliance is non-negotiable. Products should meet applicable ISO standards and regional regulatory requirements such as CE marking or FDA registration. Equally important is supply reliability. Consistent manufacturing quality, stable lead times, and dependable logistics are essential for long-term catheterization programs, particularly in high-volume or multi-market operations. Conclusion Choosing the right intermittent catheter goes beyond clinical technique it is a product-driven decision shaped by catheter size, material, surface properties, tip design, packaging, and regulatory compliance. When these factors are aligned with patient needs and real-world use environments, intermittent catheterization can deliver safer bladder management, improved comfort, and long-term efficiency. BEVER Medical supports healthcare providers, distributors, and medical device brands with a comprehensive range of intermittent catheter solutions, including medical-grade PVC and hydrophilic ready-to-use options. With a focus on consistent quality, regulatory compliance, and OEM flexibility, BEVER Medical helps partners deliver reliable catheterization solutions across hospital, long-term care, and home-care settings worldwide.

During clinical catheterization, patients often experience discomfort or even pain. Traditional catheters, with their higher surface friction, can cause urethral trauma and increase the risk of urinary tract infections. This not only affects patient experience but also adds to the workload of healthcare staff and hospital management. To address these challenges, hydrophilic-coated catheters have emerged as a major innovation in medical consumables, offering patients a safer and more comfortable catheterization experience.    What Are Hydrophilic Coatings? Hydrophilic coatings are specialized functional layers that rapidly absorb water and form a smooth lubricating film on the catheter surface. This water layer significantly reduces friction between the catheter and the urethra, enhancing patient comfort while inhibiting bacterial adhesion and reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. In terms of production, hydrophilic coatings are typically applied through chemical grafting, physical adsorption, or composite coating technologies. These methods ensure that the coating remains stable, durable, and safe for clinical use. Key benefits include: Reduced friction: Ensures smoother catheterization, minimizing urethral mucosa damage. Enhanced lubrication: Ready-to-use catheters that require no additional lubrication. Bacterial adhesion prevention: Lowers infection risks and improves clinical safety. Applications and Use Scenarios Hydrophilic coated catheters are suitable for a wide range of clinical catheterization needs, including intermittent or long-term catheterization for both male and female patients. Common application scenarios include: Hospitals and rehabilitation centers Nursing homes and home care Postoperative or recovery-phase catheterization Compared with traditional catheters, hydrophilic-coated catheters are ready-to-use, reducing the steps required for healthcare staff and lowering operational burden, while significantly improving patient comfort and satisfaction.   Advantages: Hydrophilic Coated vs Non Coated Catheters As the table shows, hydrophilic-coated catheters offer clear advantages in patient comfort, ease of use, and clinical safety.  Scientific Breakthrough and Technical Strength Our R&D team has developed stable, durable, and environmentally safe hydrophilic-coated catheters through years of material innovation. Clinical studies show that, compared to traditional catheters, patients using hydrophilic-coated catheters report a 60% reduction in discomfort, along with a significant decrease in urinary tract infection rates. Additionally, nursing operations become more efficient, benefiting both hospitals and home care settings. This technological breakthrough demonstrates our professional expertise in medical device development and reflects our commitment to improving patient quality of life through innovation.  Conclusion Hydrophilic-coated catheters reduce friction, enhance comfort, and inhibit bacterial adhesion, providing patients with a safer and more comfortable experience. At the same time, they offer healthcare staff a more convenient and efficient operation. Choosing hydrophilic-coated catheters means selecting high-quality medical products while ensuring patient health and improving caregiving efficiency.

Urinary catheterization is a vital tool for individuals who have difficulty emptying their bladder naturally. Among the different catheter types, hydrophilic catheters stand out for their enhanced comfort, ease of use, and reduced risk of urethral trauma. Hydrophilic technology has transformed intermittent catheterization, making it more manageable for patients at home, in clinical settings, and even during travel.    What Is Hydrophilic Technology? Hydrophilic catheters feature a special coating that becomes slippery when activated with water. This coating forms a thin lubricating layer on the catheter's surface, reducing friction during insertion and withdrawal. Unlike standard PVC catheters, which require manual lubrication, hydrophilic catheters are either pre-lubricated or pre-coated, providing smooth, low-resistance catheterization with minimal preparation. This design helps protect the urethra from irritation or trauma, making the process more comfortable and safer.  Comfort Advantages One of the main benefits of hydrophilic catheters is increased comfort. By minimizing friction, these catheters reduce the risk of urethral microtrauma, bleeding, and discomfort associated with repeated catheterization. Patients experience smoother insertion and removal, which can lower anxiety and increase confidence in self-catheterization. For many users, this technology promotes independence and enhances quality of life, particularly for those requiring long-term intermittent catheterization.  Practical Tips for Use To maximize comfort and safety, proper technique is essential: Activate the coating: Immerse the catheter in water or follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure full lubrication. Maintain correct positioning: Insert the catheter slowly and gently, following the natural curvature of the urethra. Avoid forcing the catheter if resistance occurs. Lubricant use: Most hydrophilic catheters do not require additional lubricant, though a small amount can be applied if desired for extra comfort.   Real-Life Scenarios Hydrophilic catheters are convenient for everyday life. They are portable and discreet, making them suitable for travel or public use. For nighttime catheterization or elderly patients with limited mobility, the smooth surface simplifies handling and reduces discomfort. Both male and female users benefit from hydrophilic catheters, although insertion techniques may vary slightly based on anatomy.   Common Questions and Misconceptions Can they be reused? Most hydrophilic catheters are single-use to ensure hygiene and safety. Why might they feel less slippery sometimes? This can occur if the coating is not fully activated or the catheter has dried before use. Does storage affect performance? Yes, improper storage, such as exposure to extreme temperatures or prolonged dryness, can reduce slipperiness. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.    BEVER Medical Product Features BEVER Medical offers hydrophilic catheters with advanced surface technology, ergonomic packaging, and smooth, consistent coatings. Their products are designed for safe, comfortable, and effective catheterization at home or in clinical settings. Features such as pre-lubricated surfaces, easy-open packaging, and high-quality materials help users gain confidence and maintain independence.     Conclusion and Safety Reminder Hydrophilic technology significantly improves the comfort and safety of intermittent catheterization. By reducing friction and urethral trauma, these catheters help patients manage bladder care independently and confidently. Proper technique and adherence to medical guidance remain essential. If pain, bleeding, or difficulties occur, consult a healthcare professional promptly.   Disclaimer This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before selecting or using a urinary catheter. Individual needs may vary, and proper technique and product selection are essential for safe and effective catheterization.

Hydrophilic Catheters: Reducing Friction and Enhancing Comfort   Understanding Hydrophilic Catheters A hydrophilic catheter is designed with a surface that binds water molecules, forming a lubricious layer that reduces friction during insertion and withdrawal. This low-friction surface is particularly important for patients performing intermittent catheterization, as it helps minimize urethral microtrauma, hematuria, and discomfort. Numerous clinical studies indicate that hydrophilic catheters improve patient adherence, particularly in home-care settings where users perform multiple daily catheterizations.   Clinical Advantages Reduced Urethral Trauma: The gel-like surface lowers friction, preventing tissue damage and bleeding. Enhanced Comfort: Smooth insertion and withdrawal improve patient experience. Better Compliance: Less pain and irritation encourages regular use, supporting recommended catheterization schedules. Versatility: Suitable for both hospital environments and at-home use.  Hydrophilic Coated Catheters: Next-Generation Design Advanced Coating Technology The hydrophilic coated catheter represents a significant evolution from standard hydrophilic catheters. Unlike traditional catheters that require manual lubrication, coated catheters feature a permanently bonded hydrophilic layer that activates instantly upon contact with sterile water. This provides consistent lubrication along the catheter surface, reducing the risk of friction-related injury and minimizing handling, which may contribute to lower contamination risk. User-Centric Design Features Modern hydrophilic coated catheters integrate multiple design innovations aimed at improving both safety and usability: No-touch Handling Sleeves: Reduce contamination during insertion. Flexible, Kink-Resistant Shafts: Ensure smooth fluid flow and durability. Tapered, Atraumatic Tips: Facilitate easier insertion and reduce urethral irritation. Integrated Sterile Water Sachets: Allow rapid and reliable activation of the hydrophilic coating. Clinical evidence suggests that these features can reduce urethral trauma and improve patient comfort, while supporting adherence in patients who require frequent catheterization. Some studies also indicate a potential reduction in catheter-associated urinary tract infections, although results may vary depending on patient population and care conditions. Choosing the Right Catheter for Patients Hydrophilic Catheter Selection A standard hydrophilic catheter is often suitable for patients with intermittent catheterization needs of lower frequency. Its smooth surface and ease of use make it ideal for patients already familiar with self-catheterization techniques. Hydrophilic Coated Catheter Selection The hydrophilic coated catheter is particularly recommended for patients requiring high-frequency or long-term catheterization. Its pre-hydrated coating and ergonomic design reduce handling and contamination risk, offering safer and more convenient use—especially in home-care scenarios where patients or caregivers manage catheterization independently.    Clinical Impact and Patient Outcomes Improving Patient Comfort Next-generation hydrophilic coated catheters significantly enhance patient comfort. By minimizing friction and urethral trauma, patients experience less pain and irritation. This improvement supports adherence to recommended catheterization schedules, which is critical for maintaining urinary health and preventing complications such as retention or trauma-related hematuria. Reducing Complications Hydrophilic coated catheters help lower the incidence of common complications: Hematuria due to urethral microtrauma Discomfort or pain during catheter insertion and removal Potential reduction in infection risk with proper handling While some studies report lower rates of urinary tract infections, evidence varies; careful hygiene and proper technique remain essential. Supporting Healthcare Providers For healthcare professionals, these catheters simplify procedural workflow, reduce the need for repeated interventions, and enhance patient safety. They also decrease caregiver burden, enabling more efficient and safer home-care management. Future Trends in Hydrophilic Catheter Technology Emerging Innovations The field of hydrophilic catheter design continues to evolve, driven by materials science and patient-centered engineering. Current trends include: Antimicrobial Coatings: To potentially reduce infection risk and improve safety. Biocompatible and Eco-Friendly Materials: Enhancing safety and sustainability. Smart Catheter Technologies: Monitoring usage patterns and patient adherence in real time.   Clinical Implications These innovations aim to improve the standard of care for patients requiring intermittent catheterization. By enhancing comfort, safety, and efficiency, next-generation hydrophilic coated catheters align with the evolving needs of both patients and healthcare providers, while supporting more consistent and reliable care practices. Conclusion The evolution of hydrophilic catheters and hydrophilic coated catheters represents a major advancement in urological care. Modern designs combine low-friction surfaces, user-friendly handling, and innovative coatings to enhance patient comfort, minimize complications, and improve procedural efficiency. For healthcare providers and institutions, these devices demonstrate how thoughtful design and evidence-based innovation can transform everyday catheterization practices.