Step 1

Gather supplies: Gather all your supplies and put them in a place that’s easy to access once you start ISC.

Step 2

Wash your hands: Wash your hands really well. This helps prevent urinary tract infections.

Step 3

Make sure everything is ready. Put all your supplies where you can reach them.

Step 4

Choose a position: Decide what position you’ll be in when you insert the catheter (see Section 6: Positions for ISC). You can stand, squat, or sit—whichever is more comfortable for you. You can try standing over the toilet, standing in front of the toilet, or sitting in a chair beside the toilet, or sitting on the side of the tub. You can even lie back on a bed (put a towel under you) with the mirror and container between your legs.

Step 5

Wash your hands again. You’re almost ready to start.

Step 6

Get into your position and look closely at your body: Using a mirror can help you see your urethra and help you put the catheter in the right place. Gently pull the labia open with your non-dominant hand (the hand you don’t write with) and find the urethra (urinary opening). This is in between the clitoris and the opening of the vagina.

Step 7

Clean the area: Wash your labia and urinary opening with your dominant hand (the hand you write with). It’s important to remember to wash from top to bottom or front to back, from the clitoris towards the anus, using a warm wet washcloth. Do NOT wash back and forth. You can also use a fresh antiseptic towelette or a baby wipe. Don’t use soap as it can irritate the area.

Step 8

Put the catheter in: With your dominant hand, pick up the catheter and dip the tip into the lubricant, such as KY jelly. Keep holding the labia apart with your non-dominant hand. Holding the catheter like a pen, gently slide it into your urethra, until urine starts to flow. Do not force the catheter. Start over if it is not going in easily. Remember to relax and breathe. Once the catheter is in the bladder, urine should start to flow into the toilet or container.

Step 9

Take the catheter out: When the urine stops flowing, pinch the end of the catheter closed to stop any urine from leaking out. Then slowly remove the catheter. You may then put it in the garbage, or wash it using the instructions you were given. Wash your hands.

Always learn how to do self-catheterization with a healthcare provider. You will get the chance to put in a catheter by yourself if you go to a clinic. A nurse, who is an expert at it, will help you. When you’re doing self-catheterization at home, you can contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or problems.

Be sure to note how much urine you’ve collected, if you’ve been asked to do this. (See Section 7: Monitoring Your Output)