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.

The coude tip catheter, designed with a curved tip, is specifically tailored for male urethral anatomy. Because the male urethra is relatively long and curved, straight catheters can be challenging to pass and may cause discomfort. When a coude tip catheter can be inserted into the bladder, a balloon-tipped coude tip catheter, such as a Foley catheter, may be used if prolonged catheterization is required. Additionally, if a straight catheter cannot be used to access the bladder in female patients, the angled tip of a coude tip catheter may be employed to irrigate blood clots within the bladder. Coude Tip Male Intermittent Catheter How to Insert a Coude Catheter Inserting a coude catheter is a common medical procedure often performed by healthcare professionals to relieve urinary retention or facilitate bladder drainage. This guide provides a detailed overview of the steps involved in the insertion process, as well as important precautions.   I. Preparation Understand Indications: Coude catheters are typically used for patients with anatomical abnormalities, enlarged prostates, or strictures that may obstruct standard catheterization. Gather Supplies Coude catheter (select appropriate size and type based on patient needs) Sterile catheterization kit (includes sterile gloves, antiseptic solution, lubricant, cotton balls, etc.) Underpad or urinal Waste disposal bag (for disposing of medical waste) Hand Hygiene: Thoroughly wash your hands to reduce the risk of infection before handling any medical instruments. Inform the Patient: Explain the procedure to the patient, including its purpose and steps involved. Ensure that you obtain informed consent.   II. Insertion Steps Patient Positioning: Position the patient comfortably, usually in a supine position. Ensure privacy with appropriate draping. Aseptic Technique: Clean the insertion site using an antiseptic solution. For females, clean from front to back; for males, clean the glans penis in a circular motion. Wear Sterile Gloves: Put on sterile gloves to maintain a sterile environment while handling the catheter. Lubricate the Catheter: Apply a generous amount of sterile lubricant to the tip of the coude catheter to ease insertion. Insert the Coude Catheter: For Females: With one hand, gently separate the labia, and with the other hand, insert the coude catheter into the urethra at a slight upward angle. Advance the catheter until urine flows, usually about 5-7 cm deep. For Males: Hold the penis at a 90-degree angle to the body. Insert the coude catheter gently into the urethra, advancing to a depth of about 15-20 cm, or until urine flows. Secure the Catheter: Once urine flows, secure the catheter to the patient’s thigh using adhesive tape or a catheter strap to prevent movement. Collect Urine: Connect the catheter to a drainage bag to collect urine. Ensure the bag is positioned lower than the bladder to facilitate gravity drainage. Clean Up and Document: Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene again. Dispose of all waste materials properly. Document the insertion time, depth, catheter type, and any observations regarding the patient's response. III. Precautions Monitor Patient Response: Throughout the procedure, observe the patient for signs of pain or discomfort. If significant discomfort occurs, stop the procedure and reassess. Infection Prevention: Maintain strict aseptic technique to minimize the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Routine Catheter Care: Follow facility protocols for routine catheter care and maintenance. This includes regular assessments and changing the catheter as needed, usually every 2-4 weeks. Patient Education: Provide the patient with information on how to care for the catheter, including maintaining catheter patency and monitoring urine output.   IV. Conclusion The insertion of a coude catheter is a routine yet critical procedure that requires skill and attention to detail. By following established protocols and maintaining a sterile environment, healthcare providers can effectively minimize complications and ensure patient comfort. Should any challenges arise during the procedure, do not hesitate to consult with experienced colleagues or supervisors for assistance. Proper training and adherence to best practices are essential for successful catheterization and patient safety. Coude catheters play an essential role in urological care, particularly for patients facing challenges with standard catheters. Their unique design enhances patient comfort and treatment efficacy. If you need specific information from a website or further details about a particular aspect, please contact us or log on the website (www.bevermedical.com)

Many reasons can lead to bladder dysfunction, such as spinal cord injuries, peripheral neuropathies, and even aging. Thus, it is need to adopt medical intervention or devices like intermittent catheters or indwelling catheters to help with urination. But don't worry, using the right catheter type can keep normal bladder function and prevent urine backflow. Because both intermittent and indwelling catheterization are commonly used before surgeries, we need to know the difference between them. Straight Tip Female Intermittent Catheter Why is pre-surgery catheterization needed? To ensure smooth surgeries, doctors may use either an intermittent catheter or an indwelling catheter to prevent bladder injury and contamination in the surgical area. If anesthesia, it will relax the bladder sphincter, and catheterization can avoid involuntary urine leakage. Catheterization also helps monitor the patient's heart and kidney functions as well as the progression of their condition. What is intermittent catheterization? It involves inserting the Intermittent catheter into the bladder through the urethra when needed and removing it once the bladder is emptied. It is performed in clean conditions, based on a patient's water intake plan. Widely used for patients with spinal cord injuries or neurogenic bladder, it is considered the safest option by international urological associations. What is indwelling catheterization? Indwelling catheterization is typically done after anesthesia. The indwelling catheter is inserted into the bladder and left in place to continuously drain urine, providing comfort before surgery. Pros and cons of intermittent and indwelling catheterization Intermittent Catheterization Indwelling Catheterization Pros Simple to learn and cost-effective. Effectively prevents urinary tract infections (UTIs), allowing the bladder to regularly fill and empty, which maintains its normal function and promotes reflex recovery. Lower risks of bladder-ureter reflux, hydronephrosis, and kidney stones, protecting kidney health. Has little impact on the patient’s daily life and social activities. Reduces autonomic reflex dysfunction. Continuous drainage without the need for repeated catheter insertion, especially beneficial for post-surgery, unconscious, or critically ill patients. Anesthesia during catheterization reduces resistance during insertion. Protects the patient’s privacy after anesthesia and avoids patient discomfort. Allows the bladder to rest completely. No need for intermittent catheterization training (ISC). Cons Requires repeated insertion of the catheter by the patient or a caregiver. Repeated insertions increase the risk of UTIs. Patients must follow a strict catheterization schedule; failure to do so could result in urinary retention or overextension of the bladder. Proper training is needed to prevent injury or infection during use. The risk of UTIs increases with every additional day the catheter remains in place. Patients need clinical voiding trials to assess bladder function, and disease progression can be harder to monitor. After 5-7 days, patients are advised to attempt voiding independently to allow the bladder time to rest and recover. Key Differences in Operation The main operational difference between intermittent and indwelling catheters lies in the sterility requirement: Intermittent catheter: Uses clean technique. Patients can perform it at home or outside the hospital with basic hygiene standards, such as using sterile catheters and discarding them after each use. Indwelling catheter: Requires strict sterile technique because the catheter remains inside the body for an extended period. Any source of infection can travel through the catheter into the urethra or bladder. Therefore, doctors must carry out the procedure using sterile methods to prevent infections.  Intermittent catheter or indwelling catheter, how to choose? According to the above info, both intermittent and indwelling catheters have their pros and cons. Choosing the right catheter depends on the type of surgery, the patient's condition, the duration, and the type of anesthesia. When to choose an intermittent catheter The surgery is short, and long-term catheterization isn't needed after the procedure. Local or regional anesthesia. Bladder function is expected to recover. Be concerned about lower infection risks. When to choose an indwelling catheter The surgery involves the urinary system. The surgery is long or complex. General anesthesia and the patient cannot urinate on their own. Bladder function is temporarily affected. Conclusion In short, the decision on which catheterization way to use should be based on the specific situation. We offer safe catheter products and meet medical standards. If you'd like to know more details, welcome visit our product page. BEVER medical is a full-service catheter supplier, offering a wide range of high-quality urological products. You can also talk with our knowledgeable product experts to help you get the right product. 

Traffic accidents, falls from stature, etc. can lead to spinal cord injuries, which often cause urinary dysfunction and other neurological issues. Subsequently, patients may find it difficult to voluntarily urinate, leading to urinary retention or incontinence. To help restore normal urinary function, the patient can use of intermittent catheter, it is effective and safe. Due to regular insertion to drain urine from the bladder,  patients can master the tips to insert the intermittent catheter themselves, minimizing the impact on their daily lives. We share the complete instructions for both male and female catheter insertion, as well as sterilizing tips for reusable products to help minimize risks. Why should patients insert the catheter themselves? Initially, intermittent catheterization is done in a hospital, and the patients should learn to do it themselves for privacy. However, if a patient has impaired hand function, or is unable to learn the process, a family member or caregiver can provide help. And importantly, do not forget to maintain hygiene to prevent urinary tract infections. How to sterilize intermittent catheters? 1. Prepare cleaning supplies Mild soap and clean water, 70% alcohol solution, medical disinfectant, or other disinfectants recommended by your doctor. 2. Clean the catheter Before use, thoroughly clean the surface of the catheter with warm water and soap. Ensure you remove any remaining debris. Rinse with clean water to remove all soap residue. 3. Sterlize the catheter Soak the catheter in the disinfectant according to the instructions. Alternatively, wipe the catheter's surface with a medical disinfectant to ensure all areas are thoroughly disinfected. 4. Dry and store After disinfecting, place the catheter on a clean towel to air dry. Once dry, store the catheter in a clean, dry container to prevent contamination. How to insert an intermittent catheter? Patients should urinate first to empty the bladder as much as possible. Then prepare the catheter supplies (such as single-use or reusable intermittent catheters, clean gloves, single-use wet wipes, lubricant, etc.) and wash your hands. Male intermittent catheterization instructions 1. Hold your penis with one hand to keep the urethra straight. 2. Use the other hand to insert the catheter into the urethra, advancing about 2 centimeters at a time. 3. As the catheter approaches the bladder, you may feel slight resistance from the sphincter. 4. Do not squeeze the penis, as this will make catheter insertion more difficult. 5. Wait for the urine to flow completely. Keep the catheter in the urethra for a moment to ensure the bladder is fully emptied. 6. Gently withdraw the catheter. Properly dispose of the single-use catheter or clean and disinfect the reusable catheter. 7. After catheterization, wash your hands again. If needed, record the time and amount of urine for your doctor to monitor your urinary status. Female intermittent catheterization instructions 1. One hand to separate the labia to expose the urethral opening. 2. Another hand gradually inserts the catheter into the urethra, advancing about 2 centimeters at a time. 3. As the catheter approaches the bladder, you may feel slight resistance from the sphincter. 4. Continue to gently advance the catheter until urine begins to flow. Ensure the catheter is positioned correctly to avoid inserting it too shallow or too deep. 5. Follow steps 5-7 from the male instructions. FAQs How many times can intermittent catheterization be done in a day? Generally, the frequency should not exceed 4 to 6 times per day. Each catheterization should involve a volume of no more than 400 to 600 ml. When to stop intermittent catheterization? If the residual urine is less than 100 ml for three consecutive days, it means you can stop to use it. How often should the catheter be changed? Typically, it should be changed every 1 to 4 weeks. If the urethral area is not regularly cleaned, you need change it every week. Otherwise, the catheter can be changed approximately every 4 weeks. However, if the time interval is too long, it may lead to urinary tract infections and unpleasant odors from the urethra.  How to choose an intermittent catheter? There are various materials and designs for your consideration. For instance, soft, rounded tips help with smooth insertion. Hydrophilic catheters do not require direct hand contact, so can prevent contamination from bacteria on your hands. And catheters with a jelly pouch are ideal for patients with limited finger dexterity. Conclusion Through our detailed sterilization and insertion guide for intermittent catheters, patients can urinate successfully while avoiding infections. Patients should choose catheters based on their needs and their doctor’s recommendations. Doctors must provide FDA, CE, and ISO-certified intermittent catheters to ensure safety and prevent complications. Bever offers OEM services, and you can find various types of catheter products that meet FDA, CE, and ISO standards. Any interests, please contact us immediately.

An intermittent urinary catheter is a device used to manage urinary retention by temporarily draining urine from the bladder when a person cannot empty it on their own. This method is often utilized by individuals with certain medical conditions such as neurogenic bladder, spinal cord injuries, or enlarged prostate, which impede normal urinary function. The catheter is inserted through the urethra into the bladder, allowing urine to flow out, and is then removed once the bladder is emptied.   Intermittent Urinary Catheter Definition   An intermittent urinary catheter is a flexible tube that is inserted into the bladder to help drain urine. Unlike indwelling catheters that remain in the body for long periods, intermittent catheters are inserted only when needed, typically multiple times a day, depending on the individual's bladder function. This type of catheterization minimizes the risk of infections and complications that may arise from prolonged catheter use. Intermittent catheters are a safe and effective solution for both short-term and long-term bladder management.   For specific details about the catheter such as material, sizes, specifications, etc. you can visit manufacture websites such as Hangzhou Bever Medical Devices Co., Ltd., an experienced, professional producer of intermittent catheters.   Intermittent Male Catheter   The intermittent male catheter is specifically designed for men, taking into account the longer urethra and unique anatomy. These catheters are longer than female catheters to ensure they reach the bladder. They come in various sizes and materials to suit individual preferences and needs. The catheter's design allows for easy insertion, smooth drainage, and removal after the bladder has emptied. Male patients often use these catheters for conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or after prostate surgery. Using an intermittent male catheter involves:   1. Cleaning the hands and the urethral area to reduce the risk of infection.   2. Lubricating the catheter to facilitate smooth insertion.   3. Inserting the catheter into the urethra until it reaches the bladder and urine starts to drain.   4. Removing the catheter gently after urine has been fully drained.   Intermittent Urinary Catheter Types   There are different types of intermittent urinary catheters, which are categorized based on material, coating, and tip shape:   1. Uncoated Catheters: These require a separate lubricant, often referred to as catheter jelly, to reduce friction during insertion. Uncoated catheters are the most basic type and are available in various sizes.   2.Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheters: These catheters have a special coating that becomes slippery when activated by water or saline. This type of catheter minimizes friction and irritation during insertion, making the process more comfortable and reducing the risk of urethral damage.   3. Pre-Lubricated Catheters: These come with a pre-applied lubricant, making them ready to use straight out of the packaging. Pre-lubricated catheters are especially convenient for individuals who need to perform catheterization frequently.   4. Closed-System Catheters: These are pre-connected to a sterile collection bag, reducing the risk of infection, particularly for individuals who are at higher risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Closed-system catheters are often used by people who need to catheterize while on the go or in less sanitary environments.   5. Coudé Catheters: This type of intermittent catheter has a slightly curved tip designed to navigate around obstructions like an enlarged prostate. It is particularly helpful for male patients who may have difficulty inserting a straight catheter due to blockages or narrowing of the urethra.   6. Straight-Tip Catheters: The most commonly used intermittent catheter, it has a simple, straight design and is suitable for individuals without anatomical difficulties. These catheters are widely available and come in both sterile single-use and reusable options.   Choosing the Right Intermittent Catheter   Selecting the appropriate catheter depends on various factors, including personal preference, medical needs, and lifestyle. Some individuals may prefer the convenience of a pre-lubricated or closed-system catheter, while others might choose a hydrophilic catheter for its smoother insertion. For men with prostate issues or urethral strictures, a coudé-tip catheter may provide greater ease of use.   It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best catheter type for your situation. They can guide you on the appropriate size and material based on your urinary tract health and any underlying medical conditions.   Conclusion   Intermittent urinary catheterization is a widely used technique for managing bladder dysfunction, providing both comfort and independence for individuals who cannot naturally empty their bladder. Intermittent male catheters, in particular, are designed to accommodate the unique needs of men, and there are multiple types of intermittent catheters available, each with distinct benefits. Whether using an uncoated, hydrophilic, or coudé catheter, it's crucial to follow proper hygiene practices to prevent infection and ensure a smooth, comfortable catheterization process.  

Catheterization is a common medical procedure used to drain urine from the bladder when a person is unable to do so naturally. Female intermittent catheter, though generally quick, requires precision and care to avoid discomfort and complications. In this article, we will explore the procedure for inserting a female catheter, the experience of putting in a catheter in females, and address the concern about whether removing a catheter in females is painful. Procedure for Inserting a Female Catheter   Inserting a urinary catheter into a female patient requires medical expertise and sterile techniques to prevent infection and ensure comfort. Below are the basic steps:   1) Preparation:   The patient is typically positioned in a comfortable and accessible manner, often lying on her back with legs bent or apart.   Healthcare providers use sterile gloves and sterilized equipment, including the catheter itself, to avoid infection.   Cleaning the area: Before insertion, the external genital area is cleaned thoroughly using antiseptic solutions to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria into the urinary tract.   2) Lubrication:   A sterile lubricant (such as catheter jelly) is applied to the catheter to make the insertion smoother and reduce discomfort. This lubricant can sometimes contain a local anesthetic like lidocaine to numb the area slightly.   Lubrication ensures the catheter slides into the urethra with minimal friction, protecting sensitive tissues from irritation.   3) Insertion:   The healthcare provider carefully separates the labia to visualize the urethral opening.   The catheter is then gently inserted into the urethra, advancing it slowly until urine begins to flow, which signals that the catheter is properly positioned in the bladder.   A balloon near the catheter tip may be inflated to keep the catheter in place if it's an indwelling (Foley) catheter.   4) Securing the Catheter:   Once urine starts flowing, the catheter is connected to a drainage bag.   The catheter is taped or secured in a way that ensures comfort and prevents accidental movement that could cause irritation or injury.   Putting in a Catheter in Females: What to Expect   For most women, the process of having a catheter inserted is relatively quick, taking only a few minutes. However, it can be an uncomfortable experience, especially for those who are undergoing the procedure for the first time.   A. Discomfort: While the procedure isn't typically painful, it can cause a sense of pressure or discomfort as the catheter passes through the urethra. This is why proper lubrication and gentle handling are essential.   B. Local Anesthesia: In some cases, particularly with patients who experience anxiety or heightened sensitivity, lidocaine jelly or another local anesthetic may be applied to the urethra to numb the area and make the procedure more comfortable.   After insertion, there may be an initial feeling of having a foreign object inside the body, but most women adjust to the sensation fairly quickly. The catheter remains in place as long as necessary to allow proper bladder drainage.   Is Removing a Catheter in Females Painful?   The removal of a catheter is generally a much simpler process than insertion, but it can still provoke anxiety, especially when patients fear pain. Whether or not removing a catheter is painful depends on several factors:   A. Procedure: For a Foley catheter, the small balloon that keeps the catheter in place must first be deflated. After this step, the catheter is gently withdrawn. The sensation may feel slightly uncomfortable or strange, but it is typically not painful.   B. Discomfort: Some women report mild discomfort or a stinging sensation when the catheter is removed, particularly if there has been some inflammation or irritation around the urethra. However, this discomfort is usually brief.   C. Pain: If there is pain during removal, it might indicate a complication, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or urethral irritation. In such cases, healthcare providers will assess the situation and offer appropriate pain management or treatment.   Preventing Complications   To minimize discomfort during both insertion and removal, healthcare professionals ensure the following:   A. Proper hygiene and sterilization of tools.   B. Lubrication with catheter jelly to ease both insertion and removal.   C. Monitoring for infections: It's important to watch for signs of infection or complications such as burning sensations, fever, or discomfort, which should be addressed promptly by a healthcare provider.   D. Using catheter and related parts from qualified, professional manufacturer minimizes the risk of complications. We suggest you do research into the producer and their products, for instance making inquiries, visiting their website, etc. Websites such as www.bevermedical.com that from Hangzhou Bever Medical Devices Co., Ltd. provides useful information.   Conclusion   Catheterization in female patients is a common and relatively straightforward procedure when performed correctly. Proper insertion involves careful sterilization, lubrication, and gentle handling, while removal is typically quick and painless, though it may cause brief discomfort for some women. Understanding the procedure and what to expect helps reduce anxiety and ensures that patients feel more comfortable throughout the process. Should any complications arise, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to ensure proper care.