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Catheters for Urinary Incontinence in Men
Treatment Overview
Types of catheters include:
- Straight catheter.
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This is a thin, flexible, hollow tube that is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. It allows the urine to drain out. A straight catheter is used for intermittent self-catheterization.
- Indwelling urinary catheter.
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This type of catheter remains in place all the time until it's taken out. It has a balloon on the end that is inflated with sterile water after the end is inside the bladder. The inflated balloon prevents the indwelling catheter from slipping out.
- Condom catheter.
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This is a special condom that fits over the penis and is attached to a tube that collects urine. With a condom catheter, you don't need to insert anything into your body. This catheter can be changed at home. But it can be hard to put on and needs to be checked often. And skin can get irritated from contact with urine.
What To Expect
Catheterization may cause some discomfort during the procedure. A condom catheter doesn't cause much discomfort. That's because it isn't inserted into the urethra. But indwelling catheters may cause some discomfort while in place.
Why It Is Done
Catheters can be used to treat severe incontinence that cannot be managed with medicines or surgery.
How Well It Works
Catheters don't cure incontinence. They allow you or a caregiver to manage incontinence. These devices work well. But some men find catheters uncomfortable or painful.
Risks
Using a catheter increases your risk for:
- Urinary tract infection.
- Damage to the urethra.
- Damage to the skin of the penis.
Credits
Current as of: February 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: February 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
