About Catheters and ISC

Intermittent Self-Catheterisation (ISC) is a method whereby people empty their own bladder by inserting a catheter and the catheter is removed after each emptying. 

ISC is sometimes referred to as the 'Gold Standard' because it:

• Protects the lower and upper urinary tracts
• Reduces the frequency of UTIs
• Reduces urine incontinence

Astra Tech is the market leader in catheters for ISC, and LoFric Catheters are available in many different sizes and models. 

It is important to maintain good manual hygiene when catheterising.  Wash hands with soap and water both before and after each catheterisation.  Wash the genital area once a day. 

After soaking LoFric in cold water for 30 seconds (ensure the water is safe to use - generally if it is ok to drink, it is ok to use for catheterisation), insert the catheter into the urethra and up into the bladder.  When urine starts to flow through the catheter, push the catheter in another couple of centimetres.  Do not remove the catheter until the urine flow has stopped completely.  Remove the catheter by pulling it out slowly. stopping if the flow resumes.