Are you considering Coudé catheters to make your life better? I must say, it's a good choice. It features a slightly angled or curved tip, making it particularly suitable for patients who encounter difficulties with standard straight catheters. If you're looking for a comfortable solution, you've come to the right place. With Bever Medical, getting to know about the differences between straight tip and Coudé tip catheters, will help you make an informed decision.  About the Coudé Catheter Typically, catheters come in two tip options: straight and Coudé. While a straight tip is generally usable, the Coudé tip more easily navigates urethral strictures or other obstructions. Straight Tip Catheter A straight tip catheter is a thin, straight tube used for quick bladder emptying. Its flexible structure and end-hole design help guide urine into the toilet. These single-use catheters come in a variety of sizes and features to meet different needs, including pre-lubricated hydrophilic options, hypoallergenic materials, and latex options. There are also portable, bagged catheters for discrete use and on-the-go convenience. Straight Tip Female Intermittent Catheter Advantages Easy to Insert: With a fully straight tip, straight catheters are often easy to insert when there are no obstructions. Affordable and Cost-Effective: Straight catheters are generally lower in price, especially when purchased from Bever Medical. Suitable for Home Use: Straight catheters are ideal for self-use by both men and women and often do not require assistance from healthcare providers (unless insertion difficulties arise). Disadvantages Straight catheters may cause discomfort during insertion, especially if insertion is forced, which can increase the risk of injury. They require careful cleaning, and carrying them around discreetly can be challenging. Some users experience pain (if pain or discomfort occurs, consult a doctor who may recommend a Coudé catheter for added comfort). How to Insert a Straight Tip Catheter? 1. Preparation Wash your hands thoroughly and prepare all necessary catheter supplies. Men usually stand or sit over the toilet, while women may use a standing or foldable mirror for better visualization of the urethral opening. 2. Cleaning Ensure the genital area around the urethral opening is clean. A topical anesthetic can be applied if recommended by your doctor, with a wait of about one minute for it to take effect. 3. Insertion Men should hold the penis in one hand and slowly insert the catheter tip into the urethra. Women can sit on the toilet, use one hand to separate the labia, and with the other hand, guide the catheter into the urethra. 4. Emptying the Bladder Keep the catheter in place until urine flow stops. 5. Removal and Cleaning Gently remove the catheter, dispose of it appropriately, wash your hands, and clean the area. Coude Tip Intermittent Catheter  What is a Coudé Tip Catheter? The Coudé tip catheter has a slightly curved tip near the end, which helps it bypass narrow areas or blockages in the urethra. The term “coudé” comes from the French word for "bent" or "elbow." Coudé catheters are available with three different tip styles: tapered, Tiemann, and olive tip. Compared to straight catheters, the unique curved design of a Coudé catheter allows it to glide more comfortably past narrow urethras or enlarged prostates. For patients who experience discomfort with straight catheters, urologists may recommend a Coudé tip catheter. Advantages The curved tip of the Coudé catheter helps avoid irritation of sensitive tissues, reducing discomfort during insertion. It's easier to maneuver around obstacles such as an enlarged prostate or urethral strictures. The angled tip allows the user to have more control over the catheter direction, reducing the risk of unintended injury. Disadvantages Compared to straight catheters, Coudé catheters are often more costly because of their specialized design. They require training and practice to prevent improper insertion and potential injury. If not handled properly, the curved portion of the Coudé tip can increase the risk of tissue damage, especially in sensitive areas. How to Insert a Coudé Tip Catheter? The inserting steps are similar to a straight catheter, but with added care for the Coudé catheter’s angled tip. If you find it challenging initially, seek help from a urologist or healthcare provider. Straight Tip vs. Coudé Tip Catheters Both the Straight Tip and Coudé Tip catheters have distinct advantages depending on your needs. If you experience blockages, urethral strictures, or discomfort with a straight catheter, you can use a Coudé catheter. If you're unsure, you can consult a medical professional who can provide the best advice for your situation. Where to Obtain Coudé Catheters? You can get them online or offline, there are many brands and types of Coudé catheters for your consideration. But do remember to follow your doctor’s suggestion. Catheter use should be comfortable, therefore, you can get them at Bever Medical. It offers high-quality straight tip and Coudé tip catheters, both of which are made of safe, comfortable materials. If you need any urological supplies, feel free to reach out to us.

When a patient experiences prostate enlargement, doctors may recommend using a Coudé catheter. So, what is the Coudé catheter? Types? How to use it? etc. In this article, Bever Medical will share practical information about using a Coudé catheter and step-by-step guidance with you. Let's get started with the basics of the Coudé catheter and who needs it. If you already know them, please skip ahead to our guide below. What is a Coudé Catheter? The Coudé catheter is a catheter used for intermittent urinary catheterization. It is also called a curved tip catheter or Tiemann catheter because of its curved tip. The curved tip allows the catheter to bypass obstacles and help navigate in areas where a straight catheter would be difficult to pass. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for patients who have difficulty using a regular straight catheter. Types of Coudé Catheters Several types of catheters are available to meet patients'different needs and preferences now. Most catheter types offer either a Coudé tip or a straight tip, each designed for specific needs: 1. Hydrophilic Catheters: These have a hydrophilic coating that, when moistened, creates lubrication to reduce friction against the urethra walls, providing a smoother and more comfortable experience. Both Coudé and straight tips are available, ideal for patients sensitive to insertion or with special comfort requirements. 2. Intermittent Catheters: For patients seeking greater independence or those frequently affected by urinary tract infections (UTIs), intermittent catheters are a preferred choice as they reduce infection risks compared to indwelling catheters. If a straight-tipped intermittent catheter proves challenging to insert, doctors often recommend a Coudé-tipped version for easier passage through narrow areas, providing a more comfortable experience. 3. Closed System Catheters: These come with a small bag to collect urine, making them convenient for travel or patients with limited mobility. Closed system catheters are available with both Coudé and straight tips, which help minimize infection risks and support sterile operation. The Coudé tip catheter is especially beneficial for patients with narrow urethras or enlarged prostates, as the angled design helps it pass through blocked areas more smoothly. If you find using a straight-tip catheter uncomfortable or ineffective, consult your doctor to determine if a Coudé tip better suits your needs. Who Needs a Coudé Catheter? Patients of any gender can use a Coudé catheter, but it's more commonly used by males. Following people need to use coude catheter. The curved tip of the Coudé catheter helps bypass urethral blockages caused by an enlarged prostate, making insertion easier. For patients with a narrow or abnormal urethra, the Coudé design is better suited for navigating these restricted areas. Such a design can reduce difficulty and discomfort during insertion. Patients who are with bladder diverticulum or bladder neck stricture. The upward curve of the Coudé tip helps easier guidance, and the catheter enters the bladder more accurately. For those who have experienced difficulty with other catheters, a Coudé catheter may be a more suitable solution. How to Use the Coudé Catheter Unlike standard straight catheters, the Coudé catheter has an upward-curving tip to facilitate smoother insertion. Many Coudé catheters now include guiding markers, and medical professionals often provide training materials before use. Self-Catheterization Steps Maintaining hygiene is crucial for self-catheterization, whether using a straight or Coudé tip catheter. Follow these steps: 1. Handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an antibacterial hand sanitizer. 2. Clean the Area: Gently clean the insertion area with an alcohol-free disinfectant wipe. 3. Prepare the Catheter: Open the catheter packaging and lubricate it if it’s not pre-lubricated. 4. Positioning: Find a comfortable position, ensure the Coudé tip angle is correct, and insert the catheter into the urethra. 5. Insert the Catheter: Slowly slide the catheter forward until it reaches the bladder. You’ll feel some resistance as it approaches the bladder sphincter. Continue inserting until urine begins to flow. 6. Remove the Catheter: Once the urine flow stops and the bladder is empty, gently remove the catheter and dispose of it properly.   Differences Between Male and Female Use of a Coudé Catheter 1. Insertion Depth   Due to the longer urethra, men usually need to insert the catheter about 20 cm deep. Ensure the tip is facing upward, insert slowly, and gently push through the bladder sphincter until urine flows. Women typically need to insert the catheter about 5–7 cm to reach the bladder. Keep the catheter tip positioned correctly to avoid irritation to surrounding tissues. 2. Positioning Adjustments   Men may catheterize while standing, sitting, or in a half-squat position. Standing maintains the catheter angle for easier insertion, while sitting provides better control over hand movements. Women usually prefer sitting or half-squatting for better access to the urethra. Sitting offers stability and a clear view. 3. Cleaning the Area   While the cleaning steps are similar, note the following: Women should pay extra attention to the vulvar area to avoid transferring bacteria to the urethra. Men should gently retract the foreskin (if present) and clean around the urethral opening. 4. Insertion Tips Men: Men's urethras have two curved areas that may cause slight resistance during insertion. If resistance occurs, pause and avoid forcing the catheter. Take deep breaths to relax, then gently adjust the angle and continue. Women: Since the female urethra is typically straight, insertion is usually smoother, but ensure the angle is right to avoid discomfort.   Is a Coudé Catheter Right for You? If you find other types of catheters difficult or uncomfortable, it is wise to consult your doctor to see if a coudé catheter might be a better fit. She or he can help you determine the most suitable type of Coudé catheter according to your condition.   Choosing the Right Coudé Catheter Bever Medical offers a variety of high-quality intermittent catheters, including both Coudé and straight-tip options, as well as hydrophilic or pre-lubricated types. Besides, we offer a selection of materials, including PVC and silicone, and offer OEM services. If you’re interested in other catheterization products, welcome to visit our website now.

In pediatric care, catheter usage requires special caution, especially when selecting a catheter suitable for children. Compared to adults, children have smaller and more sensitive anatomies. Therefore, factors like catheter size, material, and type need extra consideration to ensure safety, comfort, and reduced infection risks. Below is an overview of common pediatric catheter types and their applications.   Intermittent Catheter I. Basic Requirements for Pediatric Catheters When choosing a catheter for children, several important factors must be taken into account: Catheter Size: Pediatric catheters are generally smaller to suit the anatomy of children’s urethra and bladder. Catheter size is usually measured in French (Fr) units, with pediatric catheters commonly ranging from 6 to 10 Fr. Material Selection: Soft, non-irritating materials are essential in pediatric catheterization. Common materials include silicone, latex, and thermoplastic polyurethane. Among these, silicone is highly durable and biocompatible, making it a preferred choice for prolonged use. Duration of Catheterization: The type of catheter chosen depends on whether it is for short-term or long-term use. Intermittent catheterization is suitable for short-term needs, while Foley catheters are preferred for indwelling (long-term) use. II. Main Types of Pediatric Catheters Foley Indwelling Catheter Foley catheters are intended for temporary or long-term indwelling use. They are inserted through the urethra and anchored in the bladder by a small balloon. Pediatric Foley catheters come in sizes and balloon capacities suitable for children’s bladders, typically ranging from 6 to 10 Fr, making them appropriate for different age groups. Silicone Foley catheters are particularly suitable for prolonged use because they cause minimal tissue irritation and are hypoallergenic. Foley catheters are commonly used in cases of urinary retention or after surgery for short-term drainage. Intermittent Catheter Intermittent catheters (IC) are mainly used for short-term catheterization, ideal for children who need regular, self-catheterization. These flexible catheters allow children to insert the catheter, empty their bladder, and then remove it. In recent years, hydrophilic catheters have become increasingly popular in pediatrics. These pre-lubricated catheters come coated with a lubricant layer, requiring no additional lubrication for insertion, greatly reducing discomfort and friction. This makes them suitable for sensitive pediatric tissue. They are also single-use, lowering the risk of infection. Suprapubic Catheter A suprapubic catheter is inserted above the pubic bone directly into the bladder, making it ideal for children who require long-term catheterization but have difficulty with urethral insertion. This method avoids urethral trauma and is particularly beneficial for children with urethral strictures, congenital urethral obstruction, or complex urological abnormalities. Though this technique requires minor surgery, it is an effective and comfortable alternative when needed. Pediatric suprapubic catheters are generally made of silicone or other highly biocompatible materials to reduce infection risks and complications. Neonatal Catheters For neonates and preterm infants, who have exceptionally small and delicate urethras and bladders, specialized micro-catheters are required. Neonatal catheters are often extremely thin, and in some cases, soft feeding tubes can serve as catheters. Inserting these catheters requires great skill and a delicate touch to avoid damaging organs. These catheters are used in cases of neonatal urinary retention, urinary obstruction, and in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) where real-time urine monitoring is essential. The material must be soft and non-toxic, often made of silicone, to ensure comfort during insertion. Intravenous Catheters (such as Umbilical Catheters) In neonatal intensive care, umbilical venous or arterial catheters are often used. Although these differ from traditional urinary catheters, they provide critical access to a newborn’s circulatory system for blood sampling, medication, or intravenous fluid administration. For some newborns who require comprehensive care, these catheters can indirectly assist with urine and fluid monitoring. III. Catheter Selection and Use by Age Group Catheter choices and requirements vary with children's stages of development and their specific needs: Infants (0–2 years): Generally, very thin catheters around 6 Fr are used. Catheters for this age group need to be made from soft, biocompatible materials to avoid tissue damage. Children (3–10 years): Catheters of slightly larger sizes (around 8 Fr) may be suitable, and pre-lubricated intermittent catheters are preferred for increased comfort. Adolescents (11 years and older): Catheter sizes similar to those used in adults (10 Fr or larger) can be considered. For adolescents requiring regular catheterization, semi-permanent Foley or intermittent catheters may be used. IV. Key Considerations for Pediatric Catheter Use Preventing Infection: Infection is a common risk in catheterization. Proper cleaning of the urethral area before and after insertion is essential, along with maintaining sterile technique. For intermittent catheterization, avoid reusing catheters if possible. Reducing Discomfort: Children often have lower tolerance for catheterization discomfort. Using pre-lubricated or hydrophilic catheters can significantly reduce discomfort during insertion. For children needing long-term catheterization, regularly monitor the bladder and urethra for signs of irritation or inflammation. Monitoring Urine Output: Regular monitoring of urine output and quality can help detect any urinary system abnormalities early. For children needing long-term catheterization, periodic assessments of urinary health are advisable. Personalized Care: Every child's physical condition and needs vary, so catheterization plans should be tailored by physicians and caregivers according to each child’s specific condition, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. Summary The choice and usage of pediatric catheters require a comprehensive consideration of the child's age,anatomy,urinary system health,and clinical needs.Foley catheters are suitable for short-term or long-term indwelling,while intermittent catheters are ideal for short-term needs. Suprapubic catheters serve as alternatives when urethral catheterization is challenging,and neonatal catheters are specially designed for newborns. Caregivers should consider catheter size,material,and insertion technique to ensure safety and reduce the risk of infection.

With advancements in medical technology, intermittent catheterization has become an essential method for many patients to manage bladder function. The design of Ready-To-Use (RTU) Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheters allows patients to use them comfortably at home or on the go. However, there are still some important setup and usage considerations. This article will delve into the setup techniques and usage tips for RTU hydrophilic intermittent catheters, as well as provide practical solutions to common issues. 1. What is a Ready-To-Use Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheter? An RTU hydrophilic intermittent catheter is a pre-lubricated catheter device, typically packaged in a sterile manner, that requires no additional lubricant. The surface of these catheters is coated with a hydrophilic layer that, once activated, forms a lubricated layer for a smoother insertion process, reducing discomfort. These catheters are especially suitable for short-term or daily use, helping patients manage bladder emptying easily and conveniently. 2. Pre-Use Setup: How to Ensure Optimal Effectiveness Proper preparation before using an RTU hydrophilic intermittent catheter can improve the overall experience, ensuring both comfort and safety. Hand and Equipment Hygiene Washing your hands thoroughly is a critical first step before using a catheter. Using a disinfectant or wearing sterile gloves can effectively reduce the risk of infection. Also, check the catheter packaging for any damage, and avoid using it if the packaging is compromised. Activating the Coating While most RTU hydrophilic catheters are pre-lubricated, some models require activation to achieve optimal results. Many RTU catheter packages are designed so users can immerse the catheter directly in saline to activate the coating's lubricating effect. Activation time may vary by brand and model, so carefully read the product instructions to ensure even coating activation. Checking Lubrication Some catheters may have reduced lubrication due to extended storage time or environmental conditions. To ensure the catheter is adequately lubricated, gently touch the catheter's surface with your fingers, checking for a smooth but not overly slick texture. If the catheter doesn't feel lubricated enough, wait briefly after activation to ensure it's fully ready. 3. Insertion and Catheterization Steps: Tips to Minimize Discomfort Using the correct insertion technique is essential for reducing discomfort in the urethra. Here are the key steps: Stabilizing the Catheter During insertion, hold the catheter near the front end to control its direction. Avoid touching the insertion part of the catheter to prevent contamination. Choosing a Comfortable Position Find a comfortable position, whether sitting, standing, or lying down. Adjusting the catheter's angle slightly can also aid in a smoother insertion. Gently and steadily advance the catheter, pausing if there's resistance or discomfort, and take a moment to relax your muscles. Ensuring Proper Placement Once the catheter is fully inserted, ensure urine is flowing out. Hold the catheter steady until the bladder is empty. Avoid removing the catheter too quickly to allow complete bladder emptying. 4. Post-Use Care: Reducing Secondary Contamination Proper post-use care is just as essential as setup: Disposing of the Catheter A single-use catheter should be discarded immediately after use. Reusing a catheter can increase infection risks. Dispose of used catheters in appropriate medical waste containers to prevent secondary contamination. Maintaining Hand Hygiene After completing the catheterization process, wash your hands or use disinfectant again to ensure cleanliness. 5. Common Setup Issues and Solutions Here are some common issues that may arise during the setup and use of RTU hydrophilic intermittent catheters: Insufficient Lubrication Some catheters may lose their lubricating properties over time, making insertion uncomfortable. Waiting briefly after activation or opting for a catheter model that allows additional lubricant can help alleviate this issue. Difficulty Inserting the Catheter If you experience resistance during insertion, try adjusting your position or angling the catheter slightly. If difficulties persist, consult a healthcare provider or consider trying a different catheter model. Risk of Infection If you experience symptoms like fever or urethral pain, seek medical attention promptly. Maintaining strict hand and equipment hygiene can significantly reduce infection risk. 6. Conclusion: Simplifying Self-Care The Ready-To-Use (RTU) Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheter offers great convenience for self-catheterization. With proper setup and use, the process can be smooth and comfortable. Whether at home or on the go, RTU catheters empower patients with greater independence. We hope that the setup tips and solutions providedn this article help you use this device more effectively, making bladder management an easier part of daily life. This guide provides helpful instructions and advice to ensure a positive experience with RTU hydrophilic intermittent catheters. Let me know if you'd like any additional information or specific sections expanded!

Around 33% of women globally experience urinary incontinence, making them often feel anxious about going out. Leaks can occur during simple actions like sneezing or laughing, leading to embarrassing situations. To have a normal life, patients should ask doctors for professional advice, because doctors will recommend useful solutions based on their situations. Now, let's take time to read this article and get to know about urinary incontinence, why women are more prone to it, and how intermittent catheters can support effective management. What is Urinary Incontinence?  Urinary incontinence refers to the loss of bladder control, often caused by damage to the bladder’s sphincter muscle or by nerve dysfunction. This condition leads to an inability to control urine flow. For some, even laughter can trigger leakage, impacting daily activities. When it reaches this stage, it’s essential to consult the doctor. Why Are Women More Prone to Urinary Incontinence?  Urinary incontinence is mostly caused by the relaxation of pelvic muscles and the gradual loss of elasticity of the urethral sphincter. In women, these functions decline during pregnancy and childbirth. Moreover, the female urethra is relatively short and the urethral sphincter is relatively weak. Therefore, when women face increased abdominal pressure, such as coughing, laughing, or strenuous exercise, they are more likely to inadvertently leak urine. Additionally, increasing age is also an important factor in female urinary incontinence. As women age, their pelvic floor muscles may gradually lose elasticity and their sphincter function may gradually weaken. Especially for women entering menopause, due to changes in hormonal levels in the body, estrogen levels decrease significantly, which will adversely affect the function of the bladder and urethra, further increasing the risk of urinary incontinence. In order to avoid affecting your life, you need to seek help from your doctor in time.  What are Female Intermittent Catheters? The length and shape of the female intermittent catheter are specially designed to fit the female urethra structure. It is a common care tool for female incontinence patients to manage bladder urination and can be used in cases of urinary incontinence, urinary retention or other urinary difficulties. The use of intermittent catheters can effectively empty the bladder, reduce urine retention and avoid infection. How Intermittent Catheters Support Continence Care? Intermittent catheters help drain urine from the bladder at specific times. They are an effective option for women with urinary continence, especially those whose bladder control is impaired due to neurological diseases (such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, etc.). By using a catheter, patients do not have to worry about frequent urinary incontinence and can avoid the risk of infection caused by wearing a catheter for a long time. Improving Daily Life with Intermittent Catheters Accident Prevention: Intermittent catheters allow scheduled bladder emptying, offering better control and reducing accidental leakage. Lowered Infection Risk: Unlike indwelling catheters, intermittent catheters are used only as needed, greatly reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. Confidence in Activities: With flexible catheter use, women can participate in various activities confidently, without concerns about incontinence. Enhanced Quality of Life: By regularly using intermittent catheters, women gain autonomy and improve both daily life quality and emotional well-being. Safe Usage Tips  Select hypoallergenic materials for the catheter. Follow medical instructions carefully for proper insertion. Maintain strict hygiene practices to keep the catheter clean and minimize infection risk.    Following healthcare professionals' guidance ensures safe, effective catheter use, promoting greater independence and comfort. Why Some Women Avoid Seeking Treatment? Urinary incontinence is often seen as a private, uncomfortable topic, which can discourage women from seeking help. Some mistakenly view continence as a natural part of aging and ignore its treatability. In reality, with proper preventative and therapeutic measures, the impact of incontinence can be minimized or even eliminated. A balanced lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management can further reduce risks, as can avoiding smoking, excessive drinking, and constipation. Health Impacts of Urinary Incontinence Beyond urinary tract infections, incontinence can lead to gynecological and skin issues, severely impacting social interactions and mental health, often leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Given its impact, incontinence is sometimes called the “social cancer” of women's health. Despite the challenges it poses, treatment and diagnosis rates remain low. The Bottom Line  Urinary continence can significantly impact patients' lives, so it is important to have timely treatment. Women should not hesitate to seek effective solutions, as continence can be both preventable and manageable. For many, intermittent catheters offer a practical, flexible option to help restore daily routines. Choosing appropriate continence care products can empower women to better manage this condition. As a specialized supplier of continence care products, Bever Medical is committed to offering high-quality products and OEM services that deliver superior care experiences. Browse our website, learn about our offerings and join us in enhancing the incontinence care journey.

Urinary incontinence affects people of all ages worldwide, with a higher prevalence as age increases. And women are more likely to experience urinary incontinence than men. To maintain a normal social life, patients often choose a suitable catheter according to the suggestions. As we know, most intermittent catheter users apply lubrication before inserting the catheter to reduce discomfort. Luckily, a hydrophilic intermittent catheter brings great ease to patients, because it doesn’t require additional lubricant. In this article, you'll get to know complete information on hydrophilic catheters, including types, advantages, and guides. What Is a Hydrophilic Catheter? A hydrophilic catheter has a layer of hydrophilic polymer coating wrapped around the PVC catheter, also called a super-smooth catheter. When this catheter comes into contact with water or urine, the coating attracts water molecules and becomes very slippery, allowing it to easily glide into the urethra. This reduces friction between the catheter and the urethral lining, helping to minimize the risk of urethral damage. Additionally, the coating is safe and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for daily use in continence care. Types of Hydrophilic Catheters Hydrophilic catheters mainly come in two types: 1. Dry Coating Catheters – These remain dry until activated with water. Before insertion, the catheter needs to be soaked in water to activate the hydrophilic coating. 2. Pre-Lubricated Catheters – These come in a water-filled package with the hydrophilic coating already activated. You simply open the package, and the catheter is ready for immediate use. Who Benefits Most from Hydrophilic Catheters? 1. People Needing Intermittent Self-Catheterization For patients who need to use a catheter several times daily, hydrophilic intermittent catheters help reduce irritation, infection risk, and discomfort. 2. People with High Sensitivity If patients are more sensitive to pain and benefit from the lubricating effect of hydrophilic catheters, it can help make insertion more comfortable. 3. People Experiencing Discomfort with Self-Catheterization Repeated self-catheterization can cause urethral damage if improperly lubricated. Hydrophilic catheters are smoother, reducing friction and discomfort. 4. Others Anyone can benefit from the ease and comfort of a hydrophilic catheter. Benefits of Using Hydrophilic Catheters 1. Easy to Use Without Extra Lubrication Hydrophilic catheters eliminate the need for separate lubrication, saving time and making the process easier and more comfortable. 2. Convenient and Ready-to-Use Most hydrophilic catheters come with their own sterile water, making them more practical, especially when using a public restroom. 3. More Hygienic Since no external lubricant is needed, the chance of accidental contamination is reduced, lowering the risk of infection. 4. Less Urethral Trauma The hydrophilic coating is smooth and even along the entire catheter, unlike non-coated catheters where lubrication might be inconsistent. This coating reduces friction and minimizes the risk of urethral damage. How to Use a Hydrophilic Catheter 1. Hand Washing Thoroughly wash your hands before starting to reduce infection risk. 2. Activate the Hydrophilic Coating  Hydrophilic catheters are usually pre-packaged with sterile water or include a separate water packet. If it has a water packet, apply pressure (often by pressing with your palm) to break the packet, allowing water to cover the catheter. Gently shake to ensure full coverage of the catheter. Some brands offer hooks or tape to hang the catheter for 30 seconds to allow full hydration and activation of the coating. If not, hold the catheter upright for the same time to ensure maximum smoothness. 3. Insert the Catheter For Women – Find a comfortable sitting or standing position and locate the urethral opening with a mirror. Slowly insert the catheter approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) until urine begins to flow. Push in about another inch (2.5 cm) to ensure proper positioning in the bladder. For Men – Slowly insert the catheter into the urethral opening. Once urine flows, push it in about an inch (2.5 cm) further to ensure it reaches the bladder. What to Do After Using a Hydrophilic Catheter? 1. Empty the Bladder – Once inserted, the urine will start to flow naturally. Allow the bladder to fully empty until no more urine comes out. 2. Remove the Catheter Gently – Once done, slowly remove the catheter from the urethra, avoiding sudden movements to reduce irritation. 3. Dispose of Single-Use Catheters – Safely discard single-use hydrophilic intermittent catheters in a medical waste bag. 4. Wash Hands – Must wash your hands thoroughly to maintain good hygiene and prevent infection. Conclusion Hydrophilic catheters offer significant benefits despite being more costly, especially for those who need intermittent catheterization. If you’re considering a hydrophilic intermittent catheter, consult your doctor or healthcare provider first. Then, contact Bever Medical, we can provide quality and safe catheterization products. We offer OEM services and have the expertise to help you with any concerns.