When to Use an Intermittent Catheter

Intermittent catheterization is a straightforward way to manage urinary retention, bladder emptying, and post-surgery care. BEVER Medical carries top-quality, DEHP-free catheters, with safety, comfort, and ease of use. We've been making safe medical devices since 2008. If you've ever wondered when to use an intermittent catheter or how to choose the right one, this guide is for you. Scroll on, and read on to learn everything you need in 3 minutes.

What Is an Intermittent Catheter?

An intermittent catheter helps patients who can't urethra naturally empty their bladder. Unlike indwelling catheters that stay in place for days, intermittent catheters are used only long enough to empty your bladder and then removed. This reduces infection risk, keeps you mobile, and gives you control over the timing and frequency of catheterization.

Common Reasons to Use an Intermittent Catheter

You might need intermittent catheterization if you experience:

• Incomplete Bladder Emptying: You feel your bladder never fully empties, risking infections.
• Urinary Retention: You can't pass urine normally due to obstruction or muscle dysfunction.
• Post-Surgery Recovery: After prostate, gynecological, or orthopedic surgeries, your bladder may be slow to recover.
• Neurogenic Bladder Conditions: Spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, or other nerve conditions block signals to your bladder.
  
  

When these signs pop up, talk to your healthcare provider about starting an intermittent catheter routine. It can restore comfort, lower infection risk, and improve your daily life.

When Should You Use an Intermittent Catheter?

There are some signs you may need intermittent catheterization. Be on the lookout for:

• Frequent UTIs: Repeated urinary tract infections are often linked to urine staying in the bladder.
  
  
• Overflow Incontinence: Leaks when your bladder gets too full.
  
  
• High Post-Void Residual: Your doctor measures leftover urine with an ultrasound—over 100 mL usually means catheterization is recommended.
  
  
• Pain or Discomfort: Feeling pressure or pain in your lower abdomen, even after you pee.
  
  

If you tick any of these boxes, intermittent catheterization could be your best next step.

How to Perform Clean Intermittent Catheterization?

Follow this simple routine for safe, clean catheter use:

1.Prepare Your Supplies:

• Sterile intermittent catheter (optionally in a kit)
• Antiseptic wipes or soap and water
• Clean container or toilet access

2.Wash Hands Thoroughly: 

Soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry with a clean towel.

3.Clean the Urethral Area:

Use antiseptic wipes from your kit or mild soap and warm water.

4.Open the Catheter Package:

Handle only the outer sleeve. Never touch the catheter tip.  

5.Insert the Catheter Gently:

• Hold the catheter by its no-touch sleeve.
• Apply lubricant or activate the hydrophilic coating by dipping in water.
• Slide the catheter in slowly until urine flows.
  
  

6.Drain and Remove:

• Allow urine to drain fully.
• Pull out the catheter gently and discard per local guidelines.

7.Wash Up Again:

Clean yourself and wash your hands.

You can find everything you need in an intermittent catheter kit, making the process cleaner, quicker, and more discreet.

Where to Buy Intermittent Catheters?

You can get quality and safe intermittent catheters at BEVER Medical, with OEM solutions and lower prices. Our products have the following features:

1.Hydrophilic Coating

• Activates on contact with water for an ultra-smooth surface.
• Minimizes friction for a nearly painless experience.
  
  

2.DEHP-Free PVC Material

• Offers the right balance of stiffness and flexibility.
  
  
• Reduces chemical exposure risk.
  
  

3.Bullet-Shaped Tip & Polished Eyelets

• Easier insertion with less tissue trauma.
  
  
• Eyelets staggered for efficient urine flow.
  
  

4.No-Touch Sleeve Design

• Keep your hands away from the sterile catheter shaft, lowering infection risk.
  
  

This combination of features makes our single-use catheters a top pick for daily catheterization.

Our Top 3 Intermittent Catheter Picks

To help you choose, here are the three best-sellers from BEVER Medical:

Tips for a Successful Catheter Routine

• Stick to a Schedule: Catheterize every 4–6 hours to prevent over-distension.
• Stay Hydrated: Clear urine means you're well-hydrated—aim for 1.5–2 L per day.
• Monitor for Infection: Look for cloudy urine, odor, or fever and call your provider if they appear.
• Keep Supplies Handy: Carry a disposable kit when you're out to stay on schedule.
  
  

FAQs about Intermittent Catheter Use

1. Can I reuse my intermittent catheter?

No. Intermittent catheters are single-use only, or raise infection risk dramatically. Always use a new one to avoid infections.

2. How do I choose the right catheter size?

Your doctor will prescribe a size based on your urethral diameter. Too small causes blockage; too large can irritate.

3. How often should you use an intermittent catheter?

It depends on your doctor's advice, but most people use it 4–6 times a day, depending on how much fluid they drink.

4. Does intermittent catheterization hurt?

With proper lubrication or hydrophilic coating, insertion should be nearly painless. Stopping and adjusting your angle may help if you feel discomfort.

5. What if I can't get urine to flow?

Relax, breathe deeply, and try a different position. If still no flow, remove and try again with a fresh catheter.

6. Are there alternatives to intermittent catheterization?

For long-term needs, indwelling catheters or external devices may be options, but they carry higher infection risks.

7. What's the difference between hydrophilic and regular catheters?

Hydrophilic catheters become slippery when wet, so you don't need extra gel. They usually feel smoother and more comfortable.

Through this article, choosing the right intermittent catheters and using them correctly, you can take care of your bladder health safely and comfortably. Importantly, routine and hygiene are your best allies—catheterization doesn't have to be a chore when you have the right tools. Do not forget to bookmark this guide, stay proactive, and reach out to your healthcare team with any questions. If you want to get a safe catheterization solution, please feel free to contact BEVER Medical.