How to Know If Condom Catheters Are Right for You

If you’re faced with urinary incontinence, there are various options that will help you improve your quality of life in spite of this condition.  Urinary catheterization is the most likely solution for urinary incontinence, and can be done as a long-term or short-term solution.  In many cases, it’s possible to use a catheter on your own, or self-cath, although catheterization often requires the help of a care-taker or loved one.  Understanding your options will help you to decide which catheter style will be best for you.  The most common styles of catheters are an indwelling catheter, an intermittent catheter, and condom catheters.

Condom catheters are only intended for male patients and are common choices for elderly patients with urinary incontinence.  Because it is applied very much like a condom, it is very easy to use and can be the best way to avoid discomfort and infection in more delicate patients.  They are easy to use on your own, but are most likely used in patients that are unable to self-cath.  One of the benefits of this type of catheter is that there is a lower risk of infection as long as the area is properly cleaned, which is another reason it is preferred for older patients.

If condom catheters aren’t right for you, which would be the case for female patients, you’ll want to know the other options.  An indwelling catheter, or Foley catheter, uses tubes that are inserted into the bladder or the urethra to allow urine drainage. They are often used during surgeries, on comatose patients, following surgeries, or in the case of prolonged incontinence.  The biggest problems users of this type of catheter might face are an increased risk of urinary tract infections.  With the proper preventative measures, it is possible to avoid infection when using a Foley catheter.

An intermittent catheter is another alternative to the condom catheter.  These would be used on a short-term basis and are easily inserted and removed.  You would be able to insert and remove the tube on your own, making these a great option when short periods of catheterization are required.  Finding the right catheter to use can help you to increase your comfort in spite of problems with incontinence.  With the help of your doctor, you can choose the style that will be the most comfortable for you, which will also minimize any risks of infection or other complications that might come with certain catheters.