How Will Intermittent Self-Catheterization Fit Into My Life? Common Questions and Answers.

Performing intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) should not have a major impact on your lifestyle. Explore common questions and answers about fitting ISC into your daily routine.

Learn how to integrate ISC into your active lifestyle

If you currently manage your bladder disorder using intermittent self-catheterization (ISC), or are thinking of starting ISC, you probably have received some basic educational information from your healthcare team – including how ISC works, the proper way to insert a catheter, and how often to catheterize. You also may have gotten some advice on how to choose the right catheter.

If you have gained that fundamental knowledge, you may now have additional questions about how to best fit intermittent self-catheterization into your day-to-day life. You may want to know more about how to manage ISC while pursuing activities, such as travel, exercise, social events, and intimacy.

Below are some common questions and answers about these topics.

I’m going on vacation. What ISC supplies do I need to bring?

It’s important to pack smart if you’re traveling while using intermittent catheters. Create a “self-catheterization kit” with an adequate supply of catheters and accessories and put it in your carry-on bag.

This kit should include:

• Intermittent catheters (as many as you think you’ll need, plus a few extras)
• Disposable, non-alcohol wipes
• Hand sanitizer gel or wipes
• Small hand-held mirror (for women, to help with insertion)
• An extra change of clothes and underwear
• A plastic bag for soiled clothes

You also may want to put a few catheters in your suitcase, in case your carry-on happens to get lost. Also, consider bringing discreet, compact, and ready-to-use catheters that are ideal for travel – such as the Infyna Chic^TM intermittent catheter or the VaPro Plus Pocket^TM intermittent catheter.

When flying, will security stop me from taking my self-catheterization kit in my carry-on luggage?

If you live in the US, you’ll need to fill out a Notification Card to show the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents if you plan to board a plane with your self-catheterization kit. Keep a copy of this card with your other identification (i.e., driver’s license, passport, etc.). For more information, visit the “Disabilities and Medical Conditions” page on the TSA website.

How can I help avoid urinary tract infections after swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean?

Simply follow the same standard hygiene practices when you self-catheterize after being in a pool or on the beach — wash your hands thoroughly, disinfect your urethra opening with antiseptic wipes, and use a sterile, no-touch catheter. Also, if you’ll be in a hot climate, be aware that most catheters need to stay between 59℉/15℃ and 86℉/30℃. To keep your catheters from getting too hot or too cold, consider storing your self-catheterization kit in a thermal bag.

Can I exercise if I use an intermittent catheter?

Providing your healthcare provider has no concerns about you exerting yourself, ISC should not impact your exercise routine. Remember to bring your self-catheterization kit to the gym in case you need it. If your workout will be a long one, consider performing ISC before you start. And if you drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated during a workout, self-catheterize again as soon as you’re done exercising to help prevent an accident.

How should I prepare for social events?

If you’re going to be out in public or attend a social event for an extended period, it's important to come up with an ISC plan so you will be comfortable and confident. Below are a few tips:

• Bring your self-catheterization kit (as you would for traveling) with everything you need in a handy case, backpack, or pouch
• If possible, try and choose outings where there are private bathrooms that will allow easy and discreet self-catheterization
• Keep to your self-catheterization schedule; if there will be an event or activity where you won’t have access to a bathroom, plan to self-catheterize beforehand when facilities are available
• Wear loose-fitting clothing or an outfit that makes it easy to perform ISC

Will intermittent self-catheterization interfere with my daily activities and hobbies?

No, ISC should not interfere with your day-to-day routine, provided you have learned the proper technique and have established an optimal self-catheterization schedule. Just remember to take your self-catheterization kit with you when you’re on the go.

One factor that might cause an issue on occasion is lack of access to a suitable bathroom. So, just be sure you have consistent and convenient access to an adequate bathroom as you enjoy your day and your hobbies.

How do I talk about intermittent self-catheterization with a new intimate partner?

First and foremost, it’s important to be open and honest with your new partner from the start about your need to self-catheterize. They may not know how ISC works, so you may need to educate them about it. Answer your partner’s questions with candor, especially if they have worries about intimacy and sex.

Can I have sex if I use an intermittent catheter?

Check with your healthcare team about any potential issues related to having sex as an intermittent catheter user. Providing your doctor doesn’t have concerns, your sex life should not be adversely impacted by ISC. Here are a few simple, common-sense tips:

• As mentioned above, before any sexual activity, communicate with your partner about your need to self-catheterize, to avoid any misunderstandings or surprises
• Self-catheterize to empty your bladder shortly before you have sexual intercourse, to prevent incontinence
• For men, it’s possible that the process of self-catheterization may stimulate a reflex erection, which can then be used for intercourse

“I’ve found that sex can be a motivating factor for men who are afraid of transitioning from an indwelling catheter to an intermittent catheter,” says Gina Powley, a Hollister Clinical Resource Manager with over a decade of clinical practice experience. “I ask if they want to have sexual relations again because you can’t do that with an indwelling catheter, and that’s usually when they decide they want to learn how to perform ISC.”