Types Of Catheters You Should Look Into

If using a catheter is a medical necessity for you, then you owe it to yourself to make the experience as comfortable as possible. You should never have to worry about leaking or bursting. Because buying and using a catheter is not standard knowledge, it helps to know what your options are to make sure that the experience is as comfortable and discreet as possible. 

Hydrophilic Catheters

Inserting a catheter tube into your urethra can be very unpleasant if not outright painful. It doesn't have to be. A properly lubricated catheter should slide into place without irritation. One catheter option that strives to capitalize on offering a lubricated, pain-free catheter is the hydrophilic catheter. The term hydrophilic means that the object described attracts water. To make a catheter attract moisture, manufacturers treat it with a pre-lubricating layer that actually draws water to it. When you insert the catheter, it should stay lubricated until it is fully inserted and even when it comes time to remove the tube. Thus, if you are worried about pain and irritation, then ask for hydrophilic catheters. 

Catheter Valves

No matter whether your catheter is lubricated or not, you still have to deal with a leg bag—or do you? A leg bag comes with a strap that you have to attach to your leg. This bag creates a bulge in your garments that bystanders might be able to see. Furthermore, if the bag starts to leak or the leg strap comes loose for whatever reason, then you are faced with an uncomfortable situation and a potentially embarrassing spectacle. One option to eliminate the leg bag altogether is a catheter valve. The valve inserts into the end of your catheter tube. When you need to urinate, you simply go to the bathroom and activate the valve. When you are done relieving your bladder, you simply close the valve and tuck the catheter and valve back into your undergarments. You don't have to worry about the bulge of a catheter bag or the potential for leaking. Thus, the valve makes for a more natural and discreet experience. 

These are just a couple of the options that you should talk to your doctor about. The bottom line is that just because you have to use a catheter does not mean that you have to resign yourself to a painful or awkward experience. There are options today that will help you to make the experience of using a catheter as comfortable, natural, and discreet as possible. 

To learn more, contact a urological supply company.