What is Intermittent Catheterisation (IC)?

Introduction to Intermittent Catheterisation (IC)

Intermittent Catheterisation (IC) is the next best way to urinate, the way that most closely mimics the natural way of urinating. In this section, you can watch animations to understand the procedure of IC, download catheterisation instructions and more. If you want to know everything about self catheterisation and how the body works this is where you will find the answers!

Intermittent Catheterisation Puts You In Control

Bladder problems, regardless of their severity, can make it hard to go about our normal day-to-day lives with confidence. Using disposable intermittent catheters means you’ll be able to empty your bladder at different periods throughout the day - just like natural peeing. That means you’ll be following a normal routine, which is more important than it may sound. With a good single-use catheter, like LoFric, you’ll be able to catheterize quickly and comfortably and with a minimum of fuss. No one has to know besides you.

By catheterising, you’ll also empty the bladder completely, so there’s little risk of leakage. A lot of people with bladder problems worry about going out of their home in case there are leaks. Self-catheterising can be part of the solution. Needless to say, complete emptying is also better for you from a medical perspective.

Sexual function will also be likely to improve when using intermittent catheters as opposed to an indwelling catheter. Disposable catheters mean there is no permanent device to be embarrassed about or that gets in the way.

Better Control Over Your Bladder With Intermittent Catheterisation

If you have enough hand control and coordination to handle a catheter, self-catheterisation is a safe and convenient way to empty your bladder regardless of your condition. The goal with catheterisation is to improve your quality of life by giving you better control of your bladder, while at the same time preventing kidney damage and complications, such as residual urine and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Intermittent Catheterisation Offers Many Advantages:

• It’s easy and safe, and while it may feel a little strange at first, it does not hurt
• It empties the bladder completely, preventing the backflow of urine that could damage the kidneys
• It prevents residual urine, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections
• Because it empties the bladder completely, there’s no risk of urine leakage
• You control when and how to empty your bladder
• It could help you get a full night’s sleep
• You get used to it quite easily, so it becomes more like regular urination
• Improved quality of life! You don’t have to worry about embarrassing leaks, or how you’ll manage outside the home.

A Good Start is a Key to Success

A good start to Intermittent Catheterisation (IC) is important, both for physical and psychological reasons.

Besides a catheter that is safe, discreet and easy to handle, good support is extremely valuable.

Each person has their own unique condition and there is not just one answer on how to learn to catheterise. Some of you might experience a feeling of unease when you are about to get started. But don´t worry. Most people get over and past that feeling as soon as they have tried it a few times.