How To Insert A Male Catheter

Male Self-Catheterization

Sometimes it is necessary to insert your own catheter, especially if you are at home recovering from surgery. Inserting a catheter into your own bladder can be done easily if you follow the correct instructions.

Before you self-catheterize at home, you need to assemble some equipment.

A urine collecting hat.

Warm soapy water in a basin

Clean washcloth

Catheter

Lubricant

Clean hand towel

Re-sealable plastic bag

Void into the hat and measure your urine.

Carefully wash and dry your hands. A male can sit on a toilet or lay in a bed with his back and head propped up.

Lubricate the Catheter for a length of 6-8 inches.

If necessary, the male must retract the foreskin. Clean the head of the penis with a soapy washcloth or an antibacterial wipe.

Hold the penis upright and insert the lubricated catheter into the urethral opening. Thread it in slowly until urine flows. It will usually need to be inserted 6-8 inches. 

Allow all of the urine to flow into the urine hat. Slowly pull the catheter out. Wash, dry and store the male catheter. Store it in a re-sealable plastic bag. You can usually reuse catheters for 1-2 months. Measure the amount of urine in the hat and record it in your records.

Never force the Catheter.

If you meet resistance and cannot advance the catheter, remove it and notify your doctor.

Always measure the amount of urine and record it.

Your steps may be slightly different, but this is how to insert a male catheter.

You may also be interested in How To Perform a Testicular Self Exam.