2025 Buyer's Guide to Male Intermittent Catheters

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.