With the global intermittent catheters market projected to exceed $3 billion by 2030, procurement professionals must evaluate solutions that balance patient comfort, regulatory compliance, and supply chain efficiency. This article talks about men's intermittent catheter product features, quality standards, and purchasing strategies for healthcare institutions. Read now for a wise purchase.    About Disposable Intermittent Catheters Disposable intermittent catheters are single-use urological devices designed to drain urine from the bladder when individuals cannot urinate naturally. These catheters are vital in managing urinary retention, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, and post-surgical care. Unlike indwelling catheters, intermittent types are inserted temporarily, drained, and then removed, reducing infection risks and enhancing patient independence. Healthcare facilities increasingly prefer disposable options due to their elimination of sterilization requirements and reduced cross-contamination risks. Modern designs also enhance patient comfort through advanced materials and friction-reducing coatings.  Key Product Features for Procurement Evaluation Lubrication Methods When comparing disposable intermittent catheter models, lubrication type is one of the most important differentiators for comfort and safety. As a buyer, you should evaluate: Hydrophilic Coatings: These absorb water to form a slippery surface, easing insertion and reducing urethral trauma. They activate instantly with water, improving safety and patient experience. Pre-lubricated Options: Integrated lubricant sachets offer convenience for portable and sterile use. Uncoated Catheters: Require separate lubricant. More cost-effective, but pose higher infection risk and require more preparation.  Material Considerations Material choice affects comfort, flexibility, and safety: PVC (DEHP-Free): Balances softness and durability. DEHP-free variants avoid exposure to carcinogenic chemicals. Silicone: Hypoallergenic and highly flexible. Latex-Free Formulations: Minimize allergic reaction risks and meet modern safety standards.  Packaging and Design Features Bullet-Shaped Tips: Facilitate insertion and reduce trauma. Polished Eyelets: Ensure smooth drainage and minimize irritation. No-Touch Sleeves: Help prevent contamination during handling. Portable Packaging: U-shaped designs for discreet, on-the-go use.  Patient Comfort and Clinical Outcomes Patient comfort directly affects treatment compliance and outcomes. Hydrophilic catheters, in particular, reduce friction during use and improve overall satisfaction. The right size also matters—12Ch to 16Ch are common male sizes, with 43cm standard length for adult male use. Choosing the smallest effective size minimizes irritation while ensuring proper drainage.  Regulatory Compliance and Quality Standards FDA Requirements (USA) Class I medical devices (21 CFR 868.5100) 510(k) exempt but must follow Quality System Regulations Must align with the FDA’s new QMSR Final Rule incorporating ISO 13485:2016 (effective Feb 2, 2026)  CE Marking (Europe) Compliance with MDR Certified quality management system per ISO 13485  ISO 13485 Standard Defines QMS for medical device manufacturers Covers full product lifecycle including design, production, and post-market surveillance  Continence Care Products A comprehensive continence care product goes beyond catheters. Procurement teams should consider complementary products such as: Drainage Accessories: Bags, tubing, connectors Skin Protection Products: Barrier wipes, creams, films Infection Prevention Supplies: Gloves, antiseptics, cleaning kits Patient Education Materials: Guides and training for at-home use This holistic approach streamlines procurement and improves patient care.  OEM Manufacturing and Supply Chain Considerations OEM Advantages Quality Assurance: Strict process control from design to delivery Cost Efficiency: No need for in-house production facilities Regulatory Support: Expertise in FDA and CE compliance Customization: Tailored product specs and packaging options Procurement Best Practices Evaluation Criteria Procurement teams should use standardized criteria, including: Clinical effectiveness and patient feedback Material quality and safety Ease of use and training requirements Total cost of ownership Supplier reliability   Vendor Selection Strong supplier relationships enable better inventory management, training, and technical support. Key traits include: Proven performance record Financial stability Value-added services and pricing transparency   Where to Buy? Bever Medical offers FDA and CE-certified disposable intermittent catheters with DEHP-free materials, hydrophilic coatings, and no-touch packaging. Contact our OEM catheter specialists today for customizable, high-quality solutions that meet your healthcare facility’s needs. Explore our full continence care products or learn more about our male intermittent catheter solutions.

Patients with urinary incontinence can often manage their condition independently by using intermittent catheters under medical supervision—helping them regain control and improve daily life. Among the various types of catheters available, hydrophilic and lubricated catheters are both designed to reduce discomfort and irritation during insertion. But what sets them apart, and how do you choose the right one for your market?  Why Does Choosing the Right Catheter Matter? For medical institutions, emergency responders, and military procurement teams, the type of catheter selected impacts patient safety, procedural speed, and comfort. Choosing the right catheter—whether for emergency battlefield use or routine clinical care—affects performance, sterility, and ease of insertion. In high-stakes environments, every detail counts. What is a Hydrophilic Catheter? Hydrophilic catheters are an intermittent catheter solution for easier insertion and greater comfort. They are covered with a polymer coating that activates when in contact with sterile water or saline, making the catheter surface very slippery and moist, reducing friction. They are also popular with intermittent urinary catheter users because they can be easily inserted without the need for additional gel or lubricant.   What is a Lubricated Catheter? Lubricated catheters, also known as pre-lubricated catheters, come with a gel coating and are ready to use right out of the box. These gel-coated or glide catheters reduce friction during insertion and are ready to use right away without water activation. Like hydrogen catheters, they can be used quickly without any patient preparation.   Differences Between Hydrophilic and Lubricated Catheters Hydrophilic catheters require water to activate their slippery coating, while lubricated catheters come pre-lubricated and are ready to use straight out of the package. In terms of friction, hydrophilic catheters offer very low resistance once activated, making insertion smoother. Lubricated catheters also reduce friction but not to the same extent. The coating is another distinction—hydrophilic catheters use a water-activated polymer, whereas lubricated catheters rely on a gel-based layer. When it comes to shelf life, hydrophilic catheters tend to last longer, while lubricated versions can dry out over time if not properly sealed. Cleanliness is another factor. Hydrophilic catheters typically reduce contamination risks and leave less residue, while lubricated catheters might leave behind some gel. For field or emergency use, lubricated catheters are often preferred since they don’t require water and are immediately usable, making them ideal for military or outdoor applications.   Pros and Cons of Hydrophilic Catheters Pros: Excellent patient comfort due to ultra-low friction Minimal urethral trauma Clean handling, less mess Long shelf life in sealed packaging Cons: Requires sterile water or saline Not ideal in field conditions without water Higher unit cost compared to some lubricated types Pros and Cons of Lubricated Catheters Pros: Immediate usability Ideal for field applications and emergency kits Lower cost per unit Convenient for patients with limited dexterity Cons: Gel may dry out in long-term storage May cause more friction than hydrophilic types Can be messy if packaging leaks   What's Intermittent Catheter Best for Your Market? Both prelubricated (gel) catheters and hydrophilic catheters have advantages and disadvantages. But it can also make the decision. If your target market is hospital settings or military medical bases with stable conditions and water access, hydrophilic catheters offer a high-end solution with superior comfort and sterility. For frontline, outdoor, or emergency use—such as in military field hospitals or ambulances—lubricated catheters offer ease, speed, and practicality. Both types are compatible with various insertion needs, including coude catheters, and work alongside essential airway tools like nasal trumpets, PVC Nasopharyngeal Airway, or nasopharyngeal airway army devices. You can find these medical-grade intermittent catheters at Bever Medical.  Partner with Bever Medical Bever Medical specializes in OEM catheter supplies tailored for clinical and field use. Our product line includes both hydrophilic and lubricated catheters with model options like coude catheters and water-activated catheter systems. Whether you serve hospitals or frontline units, our catheters can make a great difference. Plan to upgrade your catheter supplies? Please feel free to contact Bever Medical today to explore custom OEM catheter solutions for clinical or field use.

Finding the right supplier for medical products can be a lot more challenging than sourcing other items — especially when it comes to intermittent catheters that directly affect patient safety. If you’re feeling overwhelmed trying to find a trusted source for quality catheter supplies in the U.S., you’re not alone. This article will walk you through what to look for and help you feel more confident managing urinary health or post-surgery care. 1. Product Quality and Certification Safe Materials Matter Reliable catheter suppliers must offer products made from biocompatible, medically safe materials. Look for: Medical-grade PVC and silicone Hydrophilic or antimicrobial coatings Latex-free options for allergic users These materials reduce urethral trauma and infection risks, especially important in emergency and long-term use.  Certification Is Non-Negotiable Ensure the supplier complies with global standards: FDA clearance (for U.S. use) CE marking (for Europe) MDR compliance (Medical Device Regulation in the EU) ISO 13485 certification for quality management systems These certifications prove the supplier follows strict testing and documentation procedures. Without them, product reliability is questionable. 2. Supply Chain Stability In war zones, natural disasters, or pandemics, catheter shortages can become life-threatening. Choose suppliers who: Operate stable, high-capacity production lines Have contingency plans for raw material shortages Offer regional warehouses or fast-shipping options in the U.S. Suppliers who stock locally can reduce delivery lead time and prevent stockouts.  Local Warehousing Reduces Risk If a supplier has inventory stored near your facility or customer base, it ensures faster fulfillment. For emergency and field operations, this is critical. 3. Cost and Value Bulk Discounts and Long-Term Contracts For hospitals, field operations, and veteran programs, buying in bulk lowers unit cost. Trusted suppliers offer: Volume-based discounts Fixed-rate annual contracts Support for group purchasing This not only saves money but ensures price stability over time.  Look Beyond Unit Price Some intermittent catheter kits include pre-lubricated tubes, sterile gloves, antiseptic wipes, and packaging for safe disposal. While they may cost more upfront, these kits reduce time, risk, and waste in clinical settings. 4. Innovation and Customization Advanced Features in 2025 Modern intermittent catheters now include: Antibacterial or antifungal coatings Smart catheter tracking (with connected mobile apps) Compact, pre-lubricated packaging for one-handed use Pediatric-sized and anatomically adaptive designs These features improve outcomes, especially for patients with complex needs.  Custom-Fit Options for Special Cases Leading suppliers offer catheter kits tailored for: Pediatric patients Users with neurogenic bladder conditions Female anatomy-specific models Field medics needing fast-deploy kits OEM capabilities also let you add branding, packaging, or custom designs based on your market's requirements. 5. Service and Support Fast Customer Service A quality catheter supplier should have: Clear product replacement policies 24–48 hour turnaround on damaged or missing orders Easy communication by phone or email For field use or large-scale procurement, fast responses prevent operational delays.   Clinical Support Adds Value Top suppliers also offer: Operation guides and manuals Virtual or on-site training for medical staff Patient education tools This kind of support reduces misuse and improves patient safety across all settings.  Buying for Different Scenarios For Hospitals Choose suppliers with: Complete certifications Strong manufacturing scale Flexible B2B procurement options These suppliers meet the high-volume, regulated needs of U.S. medical facilities.  For Home Users Prioritize: Easy-to-use pre-lubricated catheters Subscription ordering via e-commerce Discreet and hygienic packaging Convenience and comfort are key for independent living.  For Emerging Markets (e.g., Southeast Asia, Middle East) Look for: Language localization in packaging Cost-efficient shipping Adaptability to varying power, hygiene, or training levels Local adaptation is crucial for user safety and satisfaction.   Red Flags and Risk Avoidance Watch out for: No clinical data or expired certifications Vague return or refund policies MOQ (minimum order quantity) that doesn’t match your needs Key Contract Points to Negotiate MOQ flexibility Product replacement clauses Delivery time guarantees Regulatory documentation requirements These prevent future disputes and improve accountability. Conclusion   As the intermittent catheter market evolves, reliable supplier choices can ensure product availability, safety, and efficiency. Whether you're sourcing for a hospital, an army field unit, or a civilian home care program, keep these five factors in mind for long-term success. If you need an experienced OEM partner for intermittent catheter suppliers, you can consider Bever Medical. We offer flexible solutions tailored to your needs.

You'll notice that your body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy—especially as your baby grows. During pregnancy, you might face some challenges like morning sickness, stretch marks, and back pain. And some women may experience bladder leaks or even urinary incontinence due to the pressure on the bladder. In this article, we'll talk about how to manage bladder leaks during pregnancy and after childbirth.  What Causes Pregnancy-Related Incontinence? Hormonal Shifts Hormones like relaxin and progesterone loosen pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy. While this helps prepare the body for childbirth, it also increases the risk of urine leakage. Bladder Pressure As your baby grows, your uterus puts pressure on the bladder, reducing its holding capacity and making urgency and frequency more common. Muscle Weakness Pregnancy and vaginal delivery can weaken the pelvic floor. Weakened muscles can no longer support the bladder and urethra properly, causing stress incontinence. When Does Incontinence Begin? For many women, leakage starts in the second or third trimester. However, some may notice symptoms as early as the first trimester due to hormonal changes. Postpartum incontinence may persist for weeks or months, especially after a vaginal delivery. Risk Factors for Incontinence Multiple pregnancies Vaginal deliveries with forceps or prolonged labor High BMI before pregnancy Smoking or chronic coughing Carrying twins or a large baby A family history of urinary incontinence Being aware of these risk factors can help you take early preventative steps. How to Prevent or Manage Incontinence Strengthen Pelvic Floor Muscles Kegel exercises are essential. Contract your pelvic muscles for 5 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10–15 times, three times daily. Consistent practice before and after birth can reduce leakage and strengthen bladder control. Train Your Bladder Bladder training increases the interval between bathroom trips. Start by extending your time by 10 minutes and gradually increase. This method is especially effective for urge incontinence. Use Hydrophilic Catheters For individuals requiring temporary bladder drainage, hydrophilic catheters provide a comfortable, low-friction solution. These catheters are pre-lubricated, reducing urethral irritation and increasing safety during use.   Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments Maintain a Healthy Weight Extra body weight adds pressure to the bladder. Returning to your pre-pregnancy weight can relieve some stress on your pelvic floor. Limit Irritants Avoid bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. Also, drink plenty of water and eat high-fiber foods to prevent constipation, which can worsen urinary leakage. Quit Smoking Smoking causes chronic coughing and bladder irritation, both of which can lead to or worsen incontinence. Postpartum Recovery Tips Be Patient and Consistent Recovery takes time. Continue pelvic exercises and monitor your bladder habits. Speak with your doctor if symptoms persist after 6–8 weeks. Consider Medical Devices In some cases, a pessary—a removable vaginal support device—can help. Your doctor may also recommend an intermittent catheter kit if you’re unable to fully empty your bladder post-delivery. Seek Professional Help Pelvic floor therapists, urologists, or OB/GYNs can offer support. In some situations, minimally invasive surgical options may be discussed. Choosing the Right Products When selecting incontinence products, choose reliable, medical-grade supplies. For temporary self-catheterization needs, an intermittent catheter is a discreet and hygienic option. Working with an experienced catheter supplier ensures quality, consistency, and proper support. If you’re in a military, emergency response, or clinical setting, OEM catheter kits provide flexibility for various environments. When to See a Doctor Seek help if: You experience pain during urination Leaks worsen or disrupt your daily life Symptoms persist more than 8 weeks after birth You have a history of pelvic floor issues or surgeries Prompt intervention can prevent long-term complications. Final Thoughts Urinary incontinence is common, but treatable. With the right exercises, bladder training, and medical support, most women regain full control. For clinicians and aid organizations, having the right tools—like intermittent catheter kits and hydrophilic catheters—can support maternal health in both civilian and military care settings. As a trusted catheter supplier, Bever Medical offers high-quality intermittent catheter solutions tailored for OB care, field hospitals, and urgent relief programs. Any interests, please feel free to contact us today.

For individuals who experience urinary retention, neurogenic bladder, or certain urological conditions, intermittent catheterization offers a reliable way to empty the bladder safely and efficiently. Unlike indwelling catheters, intermittent catheters are inserted only when needed and removed after use. This approach reduces the risk of infection and gives patients greater mobility and independence. However, selecting the right intermittent catheter is crucial for comfort, safety, and long-term success.    Why the Right Catheter Matters？   Using an ill-fitting or inappropriate catheter can lead to complications such as urethral trauma, bladder spasms, infection, and discomfort. The right catheter will allow smooth insertion and drainage, minimize irritation, and fit the user's anatomy and lifestyle.  Below are key factors to consider when choosing the right intermittent catheter:    1. Catheter Coating: Coated vs. Uncoated     Intermittent catheters are available in two main types: coated and uncoated. Uncoated Catheters require the user to apply a water-soluble lubricant or anesthetic gel before insertion. These are often more economical but require more preparation and handling. Coated Catheters (such as hydrophilic-coated catheters) come pre-lubricated or with a gel/saline packet for activation. They offer a smoother insertion experience, reduce friction, and lower the risk of urethral injury. They are especially beneficial for users with sensitive skin or frequent catheterization needs.   2. Catheter Tip: Straight vs. Coude    Catheters are designed with different tip styles to accommodate anatomical and clinical differences. Straight Tip catheters are the most common and suitable for most women, and children. They are ideal when there are no obstructions in the urethra. Coude Tip (curved tip) catheters are designed to navigate around obstructions such as enlarged prostates or urethral strictures. They are often recommended for men who have difficulty with straight-tip catheters.  3. Length of the Catheter    The correct catheter length ensures complete bladder emptying without excessive tubing. Pediatric Length: 6–12 inches; designed for children's shorter urethras. Female Length: 6–8 inches; shorter, more discreet, and suitable for women. Male Length: 16 inches; accommodates the longer male urethra. Using the wrong length can lead to handling difficulties or incomplete bladder drainage.     4. Catheter Size (Diameter)    Catheter diameter is measured in French units (Fr). Choosing the correct size is important for comfort and flow rate. Smaller diameters (e.g., 8–10 Fr) are easier to insert but may drain urine more slowly. Larger diameters (e.g., 14–16 Fr) allow faster drainage but can cause irritation if too large for the urethra. Your healthcare provider can help you find the ideal size based on your anatomy and condition.   5. Catheter End Type: Funnel vs. Luer   Funnel End catheters have a color-coded hub that corresponds to their French size. This end allows users to connect the catheter to a urine collection bag or easily grip the device without contaminating the tube.   6. Material Options  Different materials suit different needs and sensitivities:   PVC (Vinyl): Transparent and smooth, vinyl catheters are firm yet slightly flexible. They are often preferred for short-term or occasional use. Red Rubber (Latex): Soft and pliable, these catheters warm quickly to body temperature but are not suitable for people with latex allergies. Silicone: Flexible and hypoallergenic, silicone catheters are a great option for long-term use and latex-sensitive individuals.    7. Lifestyle Considerations  Mobility: Active individuals may prefer compact, pre-lubricated options that are easy to carry and use discreetly. Dexterity: Users with limited hand mobility may benefit from touch-free catheter systems or those with ergonomic packaging. Frequency of Use: Those who catheterize multiple times per day may need more comfort-oriented or lower-friction options to protect their urethral lining.  Conclusion Choosing the right intermittent catheter is not one-size-fits-all—it's a personal decision that depends on your anatomy, medical needs, and daily routine. Always consult a healthcare professional for guidance before starting or changing your catheter regimen. With the proper catheter, intermittent catheterization can become a safe, comfortable, and empowering part of your daily life.   About BEVER Medical Intermittent Catheters  BEVER Medical Intermittent Catheters are designed to meet the high standards of clinical performance and patient comfort. Manufactured with premium medical-grade materials, these catheters feature polished eyelets for smooth insertion and optimal drainage. Available in multiple sizes, lengths, and tip options, they are ideal for hospitals, clinics, and distributors seeking reliable, cost-effective solutions for intermittent catheterization. Suitable for both new and long-term users, BEVER catheters ensure consistency, safety, and satisfaction in every use.

When urinary retention is diagnosed, your doctor will recommend an intermittent catheter. This ensures that the patient can lead a normal life. However, an ill-fitting catheter can make the patient feel uncomfortable and even increase the risk of infection. This article is a buyer's guide to intermittent catheters, including things to consider when choosing an OEM catheter supplier and using tips.    What Is an Intermittent Catheter? An intermittent catheter is a thin, flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine and then removed immediately after use. Unlike Foley catheters, they are not left in the body. Intermittent catheterization is typically done several times per day and is suitable for short-term or regular bladder management. Intermittent catheters are commonly used for: Patients with a neurogenic bladder Spinal cord injury victims Post-surgical bladder retentionCombat or trauma-related urinary complications These catheters are often paired with lubricating jelly for catheters to ease insertion and reduce the risk of trauma.  Why Choose Intermittent Catheters for Emergency and Military Settings? Intermittent catheters are ideal for field responders, combat medics, and mobile clinics due to: Compact Design: Easy to carry and store in first-aid kits Single-Use: Reduces contamination risk in non-sterile environments Quick Application: Requires no retention balloon, reducing training time Lower UTI Risk: Compared to long-term indwelling options Bever Medical provides customized catheter solutions under OEM agreements, tailored for high-demand environments. Types of Intermittent Catheters Choosing the correct intermittent catheter involves more than size. Key factors include material, tip shape, and lubrication. Tip Design Straight Tip: Most common, used for general catheterization Coudé Tip: Curved for easier insertion in patients with enlarged prostates or urethral obstructions Lubrication Options Uncoated Catheters: Require manual application of lubricating jelly for catheters Pre-Lubricated Catheters: Coated for convenience and sterility in field operations Material Composition PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Economical and firm for easier insertion Silicone: Softer and biocompatible for patients with sensitivities Hydrophilic Coatings: Reduce friction, making catheterization smoother and more comfortable Key Considerations for OEM Buyers If you’re sourcing hospitals, disaster response teams, or defense contracts, consider these factors: 1. Sterility and Packaging Look for individually wrapped, sterile catheters. Closed-system packaging is ideal for non-clinical environments. 2. Size and Length Variety Adult male, female, and pediatric sizes should be available. Defense and field kits often require standard 16Fr or 14Fr sizes. 3. Regulatory Compliance Ensure your catheter supplier complies with FDA, CE, and ISO certifications for medical devices. 4. Private Label Capability If you're distributing or reselling, ensure your OEM partner can provide custom branding, packaging, and documentation. Benefits of Partnering with an OEM Catheter Supplier Choosing an experienced catheter supplier like Bever Medical means: Custom development of continence care products Reliable bulk manufacturing Sterile, compliant, and field-tested catheter models Scalable production for large-volume orders On-time delivery to global markets, including military zones When to Use an Intermittent Catheter Surgical Recovery: Short-term use after abdominal or urological surgery Combat Injuries: In cases of spinal trauma or urinary obstruction Chronic Conditions: Neurogenic bladder, spina bifida, or multiple sclerosis Emergency Evacuations: Quick and sterile bladder management under pressure Tips for Proper Use and Infection Prevention Whether used in a hospital or combat zone, follow these steps to reduce the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs): Always wash hands before and after use Use sterile gloves in high-risk settings Apply lubricating jelly for catheters to minimize trauma Never reuse single-use intermittent catheters Dispose of used supplies in biohazard containers For field teams, training on sterile techniques and emergency bladder management should be part of standard protocol. Final Thoughts Choosing the right intermittent catheter isn't just about convenience—it's about patient comfort, infection control, and operational efficiency. For OEM buyers, working with a reliable catheter supplier ensures product quality and delivery performance. Need an OEM intermittent catheter solution that meets the highest medical standards? Contact Bever Medical today—your trusted source for private label and bulk catheter manufacturing.