Urinary catheterization is a medical procedure used to collect urine from the bladder. A thin flexible tube, known as a catheter, is inserted into the body, usually along the tube through the urethra or through a hole in the abdomen. But, apart from this, catheters might also be useful for men in general, who have urinary problems like incontinence, retention or leakage

A catheter is a medical device used to manage urinary incontinence. It is a thin, hollow, flexible tube made of medical grade material that is inserted into a body cavity, duct or vessel to treat diseases or perform a surgical procedure. If a large amount of urine is left in the bladder for a long time, it may cause infection in the urinary tract.

The process of using a catheter is to allow the urine to drain out and decrease the chance of infection is known as intermittent catheterization. The patient can do it by himself or he can also ae help of an assistant or a doctor. The process involves the insertion of a catheter through the urethra into the bladder to drain the urine out of the urinary bladder.

Here, we have discussed the types of catheters, and give you an idea about this medical product that can be helpful for someone suffering from various urinary disorders.

Types of catheters for men
Catheters for men can be broadly divided into several types. Your medical advisor would be able to prescribe you a catheter that suits your needs the best. Have a look at the three main types of catheters for men.

• Indwelling catheter
  Indwelling catheters for men are designed to remain in the bladder for a temporary period to allow the urine to drain throughout the day. It has a small balloon near the insertion tip that inflates once it reaches the bladder using sterile water. These catheters for men are designed for those who may not be able to insert it themselves and are ideal for long-term use. One of the negative aspects of using this type of catheter is the risk of infection since it stays in the bladder for a long duration of time.
• External catheter
  External catheters for men are also known as condom catheter or Texas catheter. It is shaped like a condom, and instead of inserting any tube, it perfectly fits over the penis. Make sure you apply an adhesive before starting the process for it to stay put. Like an indwelling catheter, it is also attached to a tube to a drainage bag. These catheters are not suitable for long-term use and need to be changed after a day or two.
• Intermittent catheter
  Intermittent catheters for men are a thin tube, made of vinyl, rubber or silicone that are physically embedded into the bladder through the urethra to deplete urine manually in a simple procedure that can be performed by individuals of any age. Since this sort of catheter is single-use devices, patients don’t need to wash it for reuse. Just use it once and dispose of it.

How to use a catheter
Generally, one has to follow the basic guideline as per the procedure. However, before performing a catheterization make sure you visit a certified medical practitioner, he or she will show you in detail about how to perform a catheterization. Here are a few steps that can be followed.

• Groundwork
  Make sure you have all that you need. This commonly includes a catheter, a water-based lubricant, and a container to collect urine. You would also require medical gloves, and cleaning essentials like cotton balls, paper towels, and cleanser.
  Wash your hand thoroughly and the tip of your penis with antiseptic or soap.
  Position the catheter in such a way so that the urine can pass.
  Lubricate the tip of the catheter.
• The process of catheterization
  If in case you are not circumcised, just pull back your foreskin and hold it there. Keep the penis in a direction that is pointing away from your body. Now gently insert the catheter into the urethra, that is, opening in the penis. If it hurts or you feel any resistance then pause for a while and then try again. If you are not able to insert it, stop the procedure and get some help from the doctor. When the urine beings to flow, insert the tube two more inches. As the urine stops flowing, press your abdomen and tighten your belly muscles so that no urine is left within the bladder. After the process is complete remove the catheter, gloves and wash your hands well. If you see any change in your urine color or odor, then don’t hesitate to consult your doctor.
• Maintenance of catheters
  If you are using any reusable catheter, then wash it with an antiseptic solution. Rinse it with clean water inside out and place it on a clean towel. When the catheter is dry and ready to be used again, place it in a plastic bag.

Catheter might seem like a useless product, but in reality, men might need it because of various reasons. When you know what are the products available in the market to solve the issue, you will treat the issue better.