Catheter problems

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.

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.

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

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.

There are several problems you might encounter with your catheter.

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.

Continence Health Australia (Opens in new tab) 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 (Opens in new tab) has information on catheters in languages other than English (Opens in new tab).