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Urologist told me to start self catheterization twice daily.

Posted by oldoz @oldoz, Apr 18 4:43pm

The nurse gave me a bag with a dozen (size14) in them to try. There were 2 types, one was pre-lubricated, the other you had to pop open a water packet to lube it. They were both difficult to use, slightly painful and they felt like they were going to do some internal damage as I slowly forced them in, but I did get them to work.
A supply company rep called me and after I told her my concerns she was going to send me a couple of samples in size 12 (one curved and one straight). She said it might make it easier as long as they don'd leak urine outside the tube.
I would be interested in others experiences and solutions.

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JVS | @lacy2 | Apr 18 7:56pm

...ah sounds like not a pleasant experience hope you get some helpful comments... I have not had ot do this but a friend going through it and because waiting for operation as bowel coming thru vagina.... it is very painful and if I read some tips on here will pass along to her.... hopefully the thinner size will be better for you ...when I had cystoscopy the dr first put a numbing agent on the area... no just lubricant...so wonder if you could use that... take care, J.

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markpsp | @markpsp | Apr 22 4:19pm

I know how you feel. I just started about a week ago, and have been trying to negotiate the positioning while trying different sizes. They initially gave me a 16 straight tip, but it was too large. I downsized to a 12, but they also gave me 14s. The nurse wanted me to try the Coude’ tip instead of the straight tip, but I am thinking to go back to the straight tip. I can really feel the tip of the Coude and it’s uncomfortable going through the prostate which doesn’t sound like that’s an issue for you. I do like the Hydrophilic, but based on some research and discussion with the cath rep, there is even a difference between those based on how the water interacts with the material the cath is made of. This is all very frustrating. I am just taking it slow and trying different positions to get past the pain. Like I said, I think it might partly be the Coude’ curve however slight it is. We have to just work through it. I have to do 4 a day, so I’m not too happy right now. I guess you just get used to the new routine. Best of luck!

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sperio | @sperio | Apr 23 8:07am
In reply to @markpsp "I know how you feel. I just started about a week ago, and have been trying..." + (show)
Profile picture for markpsp @markpsp

I know how you feel. I just started about a week ago, and have been trying to negotiate the positioning while trying different sizes. They initially gave me a 16 straight tip, but it was too large. I downsized to a 12, but they also gave me 14s. The nurse wanted me to try the Coude’ tip instead of the straight tip, but I am thinking to go back to the straight tip. I can really feel the tip of the Coude and it’s uncomfortable going through the prostate which doesn’t sound like that’s an issue for you. I do like the Hydrophilic, but based on some research and discussion with the cath rep, there is even a difference between those based on how the water interacts with the material the cath is made of. This is all very frustrating. I am just taking it slow and trying different positions to get past the pain. Like I said, I think it might partly be the Coude’ curve however slight it is. We have to just work through it. I have to do 4 a day, so I’m not too happy right now. I guess you just get used to the new routine. Best of luck!

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@markpsp some thoughts: 12 French is good size unless leakage. Some believe Coude assists in process. I have not seen benefit. I 5 X per day 15 months. My go to, 12, flex. Lubricated. Coloplast. Your prostate will thank you.

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markpsp | @markpsp | Apr 23 9:03am
In reply to @sperio "@markpsp some thoughts: 12 French is good size unless leakage. Some believe Coude assists in process...." + (show)
Profile picture for sperio @sperio

@markpsp some thoughts: 12 French is good size unless leakage. Some believe Coude assists in process. I have not seen benefit. I 5 X per day 15 months. My go to, 12, flex. Lubricated. Coloplast. Your prostate will thank you.

Jump to this post

@sperio I am getting a box of several types from the cath supplier today. Not sure if Coloplast is one of them. I’ve heard several people mention Coloplast as a good option. My ins coverage is good, but not sure if Coloplast is on the list, or not. I will ask and get samples, if so. It has been a bit of a challenge “getting in” with having BPH in addition to the urine retention. See the doc for followup after the UDS, so hoping for some options. 5 x seems like a lot. I’ve heard of people doing 6. I guess you really just adjust. Thanks for the tip.

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