What is a urinary catheter?

A catheter is a tube that is inserted into your bladder. It allows urine (wee) to drain out. The catheter tube is attached to a drainage bag (a catheter bag), where the urine can be collected.

Catheters are usually inserted through your urethra (the narrow tube that connects your bladder to the outside).

Some people with urinary problems need catheters permanently, but it is more common to need them for a short time.

Read more on the urinary system.

What are the different types of urinary catheters?

There are several different types of catheters.

Short-term indwelling catheter

This is a catheter that is passed through your urethra and left in place for a short time — for example, during surgery.

Long-term indwelling catheter

This is a catheter that is inserted in the same way as a short-term catheter, but stays inside for longer. It needs to be changed regularly (usually every 4 to 6 weeks).

Intermittent catheter

An intermittent catheter is used at regular intervals to empty your bladder. After your bladder is empty, the catheter is removed.

Some people can do this themselves — this is called self-catheterisation.

Suprapubic catheter

A suprapubic catheter is inserted into your bladder through a tiny hole in your lower abdomen (tummy).

This type of catheter needs to be changed regularly, just like a long-term catheter.

External catheter

An external catheter is a device that can be used by males. It is placed over the penis to collect urine.

Why might I need to use a urinary catheter?

There are many reasons why you may need to have a catheter. Some reasons include:

• bladder problems — including problems with the muscles controlling your bladder
• problems with the nerves controlling your bladder — for example, if you have a spinal cord injury
• urinary retention — when you can't pass urine, even when you feel the need to
• during labour and childbirth if you have an epidural
• during some types of bladder tests and treatments
• during certain types of surgery
• being very unwell in hospital

When should I see my doctor?

You should see your doctor or continence adviser if:

• your catheter gets blocked often
• you have pain due to your catheter

Seek medical attention for any catheter problems that don't get better with simple self-care measures.

When should I seek urgent care?

See a doctor promptly if you notice any blood in your urine or have symptoms of a urinary tract infection.

If you have an indwelling urinary catheter and it falls out, call a doctor or nurse immediately, or go to an urgent care clinic or hospital emergency department.

If urine is not draining from your catheter, or if you are in pain, you need immediate treatment.

If you need to see a doctor but cannot wait for an appointment, you may be able to get treatment at a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic. Use the Service Finder to find your nearest one.

Urinary catheter problems — what to do

There are several problems you might encounter with your catheter.

There is no urine draining from an intermittent catheter

If urine is not draining after putting in an intermittent catheter, try coughing to help start the flow of urine.

Check that you have inserted the catheter into your urethra correctly.

If urine is still not draining, remove the catheter slowly and seek advice from your doctor or nurse. If your bladder is full and you are uncomfortable, visit your nearest emergency department immediately.

Blocked catheter

If you have an indwelling catheter, check the drainage tube is not bent or twisted.

Also check that the leg bag straps aren't blocking the flow. Make sure the bag is below your bladder when you are lying, sitting or standing.

If urine still does not flow, see your doctor. The catheter may have to be flushed or replaced. Use clean towels or pads to keep yourself dry while you wait for care.

If you have a full bladder or are in pain, go to a hospital emergency department for treatment.

Catheter leakage

Sometimes urine can bypass the catheter and leak out. This can happen if the catheter is not placed properly. It can also be caused by:

• constipation
• bladder muscle spasms (sudden contractions of your bladder muscle)
• a blocked catheter

Seek advice from your doctor or continence adviser if you have catheter leakage.

Catheter has fallen out

If you have an indwelling urinary catheter and it falls out, call your doctor or nurse immediately, or go to your nearest urgent care clinic or emergency department for treatment.

Infection

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) include:

• cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• a burning feeling around the catheter, itching or soreness
• blood in your urine
• abdominal (tummy) pain
• feeling unwell
• fever
• discomfort in your lower back or around your sides

See your doctor straight away if you think you have a urinary tract infection (UTI). You will likely need antibiotics and may need to have your catheter changed.

General urinary catheter care

Here are some tips for taking care of your catheter:

• Keep the area where the catheter is inserted clean — wash gently using water and mild soap, rinse and dry well.
• Wash your hands before and after touching the area where the catheter is inserted.
• Change the drainage bag regularly.

Drink plenty of water if you have a catheter, unless a doctor has told you to restrict your water intake due to a health condition.

Avoiding constipation can also help prevent catheter complications.

Resources and support

Continence Health Australia has information and support for people with bladder control problems — call their helpline on 1800 33 00 66.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Languages other than English

Health Translations has information on catheters in languages other than English.