If you are new to using intermittent catheters, you may have been told by your healthcare provider to empty your bladder completely every time you cath. In today’s article, we will discuss why complete bladder emptying is important, and some techniques you can use to help empty your bladder when self-cathing.
Allowing the bladder to fill and then drain completely replicates the natural storage and emptying function of the bladder. Maintaining bladder capacity and emptying thoroughly when cathing can help preserve bladder and kidney function and reduce your risk of complications such as urinary tract infections. Leaving residual urine in the bladder can give bacteria a place to grow. If a lot of urine is left in the bladder, this can cause damage to the bladder or kidneys from chronic overfilling.
For individuals who are wondering how to best empty their bladder, below are some techniques that can help:
- Take a couple of deep breaths and try to relax the muscles before inserting the catheter.
- Use steady movement and gentle pressure when inserting the catheter.
- Once urine begins to flow, carefully insert the catheter another inch to make sure the catheter is well within the bladder. Allow the catheter to stay in place until urine stops flowing.
- Pull the catheter out about 1/2 inch and allow any residual urine to drain.
- Repeat this process until no more urine comes out.
- You can try repositioning your body or leaning forward before removing the catheter to see if any more urine will drain as you change positions.
Healthy bowel movements can help reduce the risk of incomplete bladder emptying. Constipation can contribute to the bladder retaining urine because a descended bowel full of hard stool can place pressure on the bladder and alter its shape, not allowing the urine to drain out. Addressing constipation and aiming for regular, soft bowel movements can help improve bladder emptying. Adequate fluid and fiber intake and regular physical activity can help prevent constipation. Talk to your doctor if you experience ongoing issues with constipation to see if a bowel program might be helpful.
Some people who use intermittent catheters may not be able to control or feel their urethra and bladder at all. This can make it challenging to tell if the bladder is full or empty. Using a schedule to catheterize and aiming for steady fluid intake throughout the day can help. Individuals with higher-level spinal cord injuries may experience a serious complication known as autonomic dysreflexia when their bladder is overextended. Autonomic dysreflexia is a nervous system response to uncomfortable stimuli below the point of the spinal cord injury, including an uncomfortably full bladder. Autonomic dysreflexia symptoms include flushing and sweating above the level of spinal cord injury, pounding headaches, blood pressure spikes and cool, clammy skin below the level of spinal cord injury. It is recommended that the bladder be drained immediately if symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia occur and there is no other obvious cause.
If you are having trouble emptying your bladder or feel that you cannot drain all the urine when you self-catheterize, talk to your urologist. There may be tests that can help identify the problem and treatments available. Having the right catheter for your individual needs can go a long way in helping you feel confident in emptying your bladder. If you would like to learn more about catheter options, contact ABC Medical and talk to our product experts today.
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Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice, please speak with your healthcare provider.
References
Chiba T, Kikuchi S, Omori S, Seino K. Chronic constipation and acute urinary retention. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2022 Jan 1;34(1):e1-e2. doi: 10.1097/MEG.0000000000001970. PMID: 33273268; PMCID: PMC8614547.
Quallich S, Lajiness M, Engberg S, Gray M. Patient Education in Intermittent Catheterization: A Consensus Conference. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2023 Sep-Oct 01;50(5):393-399. doi: 10.1097/WON.0000000000001013. PMID: 37713350.
