Page 1 - Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterization for Women

Urological Health

Clean intermittent

self-catheterization for women

CIC is a safe and effective way of emptying the bladder when it fails to empty completely on
its own. Many women find that their health and quality of life are improved with CIC.

our doctor has recommended clean intermittent • Soapy wash cloth, disposable towelettes or unscented
Yself-catheterization (CIC) to help you empty your diaper wipes
bladder. Urine is produced by the kidneys and carried • Clean, dry towel
to the bladder where it is stored. When emptying
is appropriate, the bladder outlet control muscle • Urine collection container, if desired
(sphincter) normally relaxes while the bladder muscle • Hand mirror, if required
contracts to expel the urine through the urethra (“urine • Catheter storage container (e.g. Ziploc bag
®
passage”).
or travel toothbrush holder)
Sometimes, the bladder may not empty completely
or at all, usually because of obstruction of its outlet Female genital anatomy
(occasionally seen after pelvic surgery) or weakening of
the bladder muscle. The bladder must then be emptied
through a plastic or rubber tube, a catheter, passed
through the urethra.

In some cases, a catheter may be left in place,
draining urine continuously into a collection bag. After
several weeks, this may lead to urinary infection and
stone formation, as well as the discomfort of having
a catheter in the urethra and the inconvenience of
carrying a urine collection bag. For many women with
incomplete bladder emptying, it is possible to learn to
insert and remove a catheter themselves, decreasing
the risk of infection and minimizing discomfort with little
inconvenience.
Self-catheterization technique
Bladder anatomy
Proper “clean” technique (no disinfectant or gloves
required) will usually prevent infection without the need
for absolute sterility. Catheterization may be performed
in any clean washroom; counter space within reach is
useful.
1. Assemble the necessary supplies and have
them close at hand.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water,
then, inse and dry. It is best to keep your fingernails
short and clean.
3. Get into a comfortable position; you may catheterize
yourself standing with one foot supported on a stool
or the toilet rim, sitting in front of or on a toilet or
Supplies required propped up in bed.

• A clear plastic or soft rubber catheter, size 12, 14 or 16 4. Spread your thighs wide apart and separate your
French (as directed by your doctor) vaginal labia with one hand. Wash from front to back
with soap and water, then rinse with water and dry.
• Water soluble lubricant (e.g. KY Jelly™, Muko™, etc). A damp towelette can be used as an alternative.
Do not use petroleum jelly (e.g. Vaseline™) or mineral
oil.
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