What is intermittent self-catheterization?

Intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) is a way of emptying your bladder during the day, using a thin tube called a catheter. The catheter is put into your bladder to help drain the urine out completely. Intermittent means “from time to time,” usually at about the same time each day.

Self-catheterization is when you place a thin tube (catheter) into your bladder to drain the urine and empty your bladder.

Why do some women need to do intermittent self-catheterization (ISC)?

You may need ISC when your bladder doesn’t empty as well as it should.

Some of the causes are:

• nerves that may be damaged
• swelling around the urethra (the tube that leads to the bladder)
• something blocking the bladder from emptying.

ISC can help you empty your bladder completely. You may need to do ISC once or twice a day, or more often, depending on how well you can pee on your own.

ISC may be done for a short time (e.g., after swelling from surgery goes down). Or it may need to be done long term. Some women do it for the rest of their lives.

Can I really do ISC?

The idea of putting in a catheter (catheterizing) yourself can be scary. It can seem complicated at first. Many women are afraid that they can’t do this. But remember that many women do this with no problems at all. After learning how and getting used to it, self-catheterization can be simple and can make you much more comfortable. You will be healthier and happier. It doesn’t need to take up any more time than normal bathroom visits do. This learning module explains how to do it step by step.