What is an Incontinence Catheter?

An incontinence catheter is a medical device that drains urine from the bladder into a collection bag. These devices are used or worn by people with incontinence to collect their urine so they do not experience leakage. Catheters can improve quality of life, in addition to making people more comfortable and allowing them to be more active. They may be used as a temporary treatment while causes of incontinence are addressed or they can become a permanent management option.

In individuals with incontinence, there is a problem with bladder control that leads to inadvertent release of urine. There can be a number of different causes. A urologist usually supervises care for the patient and can perform diagnostic tests to find out more about why the patient is experiencing problems. Treatment methods can include surgery, physical therapy, medications, and the use of a catheter to avoid accidents.

Men sometimes wear an external incontinence catheter. This consists of a sheath worn over the penis and attached to a collection bag. Any urine released will be collected in the bag. The device can be worn for an extended period of time, with the man changing or emptying the bag as needed. It is important to get the right fit with the device and to ensure that the bag is properly secured, typically on the leg.

Internal catheters can be used by both women and men. Wearing a catheter internally in the long term can be uncomfortable. As a result, a doctor may recommend intermittent catheterization, where the patient periodically inserts the catheter to drain urine from the bladder and then removes it. This type of incontinence catheter requires some training for the patient, as special care must be taken to reduce the risks of infection. Other patients may need to wear a catheter permanently to drain urine, in which case a doctor will insert the device and periodically check on it to confirm that it is still in place.

Using an incontinence catheter is not always a solution to incontinence. For some patients it may not be necessary or advised. If it is an option for a patient, it can be discussed with a urologist. The doctor can provide an overview on advantages and disadvantages to the patient and offer training in how to handle and care for the catheter. Some patients prefer wearing an incontinence catheter to using pads and special undergarments to manage incontinence.