Page 3 - Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterization for Women

Clean intermittent

self-catheterization for women

Possible problems

• Difficulty finding the urethral opening may be helped
by using a small hand mirror. If urine does not flow,
make sure that the catheter is not in the vagina. A
tampon in the vagina may prevent placing the
catheter there while you are learning to self-
catheterize. Use a clean catheter if the first one goes
into the vagina.

• Pain or resistance with the passage of a catheter may
indicate that you are not using enough lubricant.
Occasionally, it may be a sign of scar formation in the
bladder outlet.

• Blood on the catheter or in the urine suggests the
possibility of injury to the urethra or bladder. Concern
arises when bleeding is continuous, frequent or heavy.

• You may have bacteria detected in your urine, but
in the absence of symptomds, this may not require
treatment.
• Symptoms of painful urination, fever (over 38.5°C
or 101°F), chills or abnormal sweating may indicate
infection.

• If you are unable to insert the catheter after several
attempts, you should go immediately to your hospital
emergency room.

Please contact your doctor or urology nurse if you have
any of these problems.

CIC is a safe and effective way of emptying the
bladder when necessary. With practice, your ease of
catheterization will improve, usually within a few weeks.
Most women will find that quality of life is minimally
affected and, often, improved with CIC.

This publication is produced by

The information in the publication is not intended to convey medical advice or to substitute for direct consultation with a qualified medical
practitioner. The Canadian Urological Association disclaims all liability and legal responsibility howsoever caused, including negligence, for the
information contained in or referenced by this brochure. cua.org 2E-SCFE-06-09
© 2014. Canadian Urological Association. All rights reserved.