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Does ISC Hurt?
It may feel like a strange sensation at first, but ISC should not be painful. For some, the urethra is more sensitive when first learning, but ask for advice if this does not settle with time.
Can I do any damage?
If you select the right type of catheters and carefully follow the instructions you receive from your ISC teacher, catheterisation should not cause any damage to your bladder or urethra, even if ISC is necessary long term.
How many times a day should I carry out ISC?
The person teaching you ISC should decide this, depending on the amount of urine you pass or drain through the catheter. It can also be affected by your specific bladder problem and medication. Typically the bladder should not contain more than 350-400ml, but your nurse may advise on this and ask you to keep a urine record chart.
How do I fit ISC into everyday life?
To manage ISC without interfering with your normal activities, try to establish times of the day that are convenient, such as first thing in the morning, coffee breaks or before lunch. Leave extra catheters at places you visit often, such as work, holiday homes or with relatives. Once incorporated into your routine and using the right catheter, ISC will enable you to live a normal life and give you greater freedom.
How much should I drink?
The usual recommendation is to drink at least six to eight cups of fluid every day, keeping caffeine to a minimum as this can irritate your bladder.
What if I can’t insert or withdraw the catheter?
Try to relax, as being unable to insert or withdraw is usually due to the bladder's sphincter muscle being tense. Coughing may help relax the muscles but do not force the catheter in or out. Never try to cut the catheter – speak to your doctor or nurse if you are having problems.
How long will I have to catheterise?
This is dependent on the individual and the nature of your specific condition. Sometimes ISC is a temporary solution to help the bladder regain normal function, but whatever the reason ISC will help you manage and improve your bladder health and your quality of life.
What happens if I do not catheterise as often as I was told to?
If you miss catheterisation once or twice don’t worry, but if this happens often it can cause urine leakage and Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). If pressure on your bladder becomes too high, there is a risk that your urine will move up to your kidneys, which can cause serious injury.
What do I do if I see blood in my urine?
It is normal to see a few specks of blood in your urine when you are beginning ISC, but it should clear up in a few days. If it continues or gets worse, contact your doctor or nurse.
What if no urine drains when catheterising?
If no urine drains, gently remove the catheter and try again. If the problem persists, contact your doctor or nurse.
Do my bowel habits affect catheterising?
Being constipated can interfere with your ISC so try to eat a well balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables.
How often should I wash?
To avoid washing away the natural bacteria that protects us from infection, it is recommended that you wash your genital area once a day with mild soap and water. It is also a good idea to clean your genital area when catheterising after a bowel movement and you can use disposable wet wipes if you wish.
What do I do if I have a period?
During your period you should wash the genital area with mild soap before each catheterisation. To avoid getting blood on the catheter, you could change your tampon before emptying the bladder.
What do I do if I am pregnant?
During pregnancy you can still carry out ISC, but as the baby grows you may need to use a longer length LoFric catheter.
How do I know if I have a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
If you experience flu-like symptoms, shivering, a high temperature or fever, or cloudy or smelly urine, you may have an infection. Drink extra fluids, continue to catheterise and contact your doctor or nurse for advice.
Will ISC affect my sex life?
ISC should affect your sex life in a positive way. You should be able to maintain a sexual relationship without embarrassing leakage or discomfort.
Am I still able to travel abroad?
Yes you can! Just be sure to take enough catheters with you and don’t forget to pack some in your hand luggage. Ask us for a Medical Validation Certificate explaining what your catheters are for to save you inconvenience with customs.
What do I do if I find a fault with my catheter?
In the unlikely event of a fault with a LoFric catheter please contact Astra Tech directly for advice on 0800 652 3350.
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