Male catheters are medical devices for various urinary conditions. Many individuals are concerned about potential pain. While some discomfort or unusual sensations are common, severe or persistent pain is generally not expected and should be promptly reported to a healthcare professional. This article clarifies what to anticipate when using male catheters.
Types of Male Catheters
Understanding the types of male catheters helps explain the sensations they might cause. There are three primary categories: intermittent, indwelling, and external catheters. Each type serves a distinct purpose.
Intermittent catheters are thin, flexible tubes inserted into the urethra to drain the bladder, then immediately removed. These are often used multiple times daily by individuals who self-catheterize.
Indwelling catheters, also known as Foley catheters, remain in the bladder for an extended period, typically days or weeks. They have a small balloon inflated inside the bladder to keep it in place and connect to a drainage bag.
External catheters, sometimes called condom catheters, do not enter the urethra. Instead, a sheath fits over the penis to collect urine externally, directing it into a drainage bag. This type manages urinary incontinence without urethral insertion.
What Catheterization Feels Like
The experience of catheterization varies among individuals. During insertion, sensations often include pressure, a burning feeling, or mild discomfort within the urethra. Some also report a strong urge to urinate as the catheter is advanced. This initial discomfort usually lessens once the catheter is fully in place.
With an indwelling catheter, a constant awareness of its presence is common, and some men may experience mild irritation or a dull ache. Bladder spasms can occur, feeling like stomach cramps, as the bladder attempts to expel the catheter’s balloon. This can lead to leakage around the catheter. Proper positioning and securement prevent pulling or tugging, which can cause discomfort.
Catheter removal is generally less uncomfortable than insertion. Many men describe a “slithery” feeling as the catheter is withdrawn. Some may experience mild irritation or a stinging sensation at the tip of the penis, which subsides quickly. After removal, some individuals might feel a temporary loss of bladder control or a burning sensation when first urinating.
Managing Discomfort and Pain
Minimizing discomfort and pain from catheters involves several strategies. Proper lubrication is crucial for smooth insertion and removal, reducing friction and trauma to the urethra. Water-soluble lubricants are recommended and can be applied generously to the catheter or directly into the urethra. Some catheters come pre-lubricated.
Ensuring the correct catheter size and type can also prevent discomfort. If self-catheterizing, proper technique is important to avoid injury. Staying well-hydrated helps keep urine diluted and reduces irritation. Securing indwelling catheters to the thigh prevents tension and movement, which can cause pain.
Sharp, severe, or persistent pain is not typical and warrants immediate medical attention. Such pain, along with symptoms like fever, chills, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine, or inability to drain the bladder, could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI), blockage, or urethral trauma. If resistance is met during insertion, forcing the catheter should be avoided, as this can cause injury. Healthcare providers can assess the situation and recommend adjustments.