Staying on Track – Urinary Health Tips for Young Catheter Users
University of Alabama wheelchair basketball athlete Aaron Berry discusses how a consistent routine, clean habits, and mindful hydration can help young intermittent catheter users stay healthy.
Get Aaron’s tips for creating an ISC routine, avoiding UTIs, and building your confidence.
For young intermittent catheter users, especially student athletes, maintaining urinary health is key to staying active, confident, and infection-free. Whether you're heading to class, training with your team, or hanging out with friends, planning and consistency can make all the difference. Aaron Berry, a senior on the University of Alabama men's wheelchair basketball team, shares his tips for creating a healthy intermittent self-catheterization (ISC ) routine, preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs), and feeling empowered through self-care.
Establishing an ISC routine
Having a neurogenic bladder means ISC is part of everyday life, but it doesn't have to hold you back. “I try not to think of it as something that gets in my way, even though I do have to do it," Aaron explains. “The key is to create a schedule that fits naturally into your day.” Use reminders or phone alarms if you need to, especially when life gets busy or you're away from home for long periods, like at sleepovers or tournaments. “The biggest rule?” says Aaron. “Don't forget to cath!”
When it comes to establishing an ISC routine, organization is everything. Aaron recommends catheterizing before and after big activities – like sports practices, classes, or outings with friends – which can help you stay focused and comfortable. He also believes it’s important to have a backup plan. “I always pack extra catheters in my backpack and carry-on," he says. Having a small travel kit or discreet bag for your supplies can help you stay ready anywhere and prevent stress. And when it comes to sports, take breaks to catheterize as needed.
From inaccessible restrooms to forgotten supplies, unexpected challenges can happen. Aaron emphasizes the importance of adaptability. “Nothing is ever going to be perfect,” he says. “The biggest skill you can have is learning to adapt to whatever situation you're in." Whether it's managing stress before a big game, finding a discreet space to catheterize, or rebuilding confidence after a setback, your mindset makes all the difference. You're not alone in figuring it out, and every day you're mastering a skill that shows strength, independence, and resilience.
Preventing UTIs
Another key to maintaining urinary health is preventing UTIs. Two easy ways to protect your bladder from infection are to take your time and make sure everything is clean. “Never rush cathing,” says Aaron. “Always go slowly.” Rushing can cause tissue irritation or damage, or introduce bacteria into your bladder. Keeping things clean is also essential. Wash your hands before and after, use clean surfaces and supplies, and try to avoid contaminating your catheter. A clean routine protects you against UTIs, keeps you feeling fresh. and ensures that catheterizing remains comfortable.
It’s also very important for people with neurogenic bladders to stay hydrated. Since sensation can be limited, it’s crucial to recognize other signs of dehydration that your body sends, like cloudy urine, fatigue, or abdominal discomfort. “I can't always feel when something's off, so I've learned to pay attention to those subtle signs," says Aaron.
Avoid drinks that may irritate your bladder, like coffee, tea, carbonated soda, and energy drinks. Stick with water whenever possible. Make hydration fun by infusing your water with lemon or other fruits, using a smart bottle, or tracking your intake with an app on your phone. “I love lemon water or sparkling waters like Waterloo," Aaron shares. “They make staying hydrated enjoyable."
Even with great habits, UTI symptoms can pop up, like burning, cloudy urine, or fatigue. If you think you may have a UTI, don't wait to get medical attention. Catching a possible infection early helps prevent bigger problems later. For more information on UTI prevention, check out these articles: UTI Prevention Tips for Women and UTI Prevention Tips for Men.
Bladder care is self-care
For many, the hardest part about ISC isn't physical, it's emotional. Building confidence takes time and self-acceptance. “When I was younger, I used to be really self-conscious about cathing,” says Aaron. “Now when I do it, I remind myself that I'm awesome, capable, and brave," he continues. “The more you tell yourself that, the easier it becomes.” Aaron also believes that taking care of your bladder is a form of mental health care. “There are definitely days where it stresses me out," Aaron admits. “But I take a deep breath, reset, and remind myself this is just part of my life."
Whether or not to explain catheter use is a personal choice. Aaron keeps it simple. “I've told my family and a few close friends,” he says. “If someone in nursing school or healthcare asks out of curiosity, I'll explain; it's a chance to educate." You never have to share more than you're comfortable with. Over time, you'll find what feels right for you.
For young intermittent catheter users, staying healthy comes down to awareness, preparation, and confidence. A consistent routine, clean habits, and mindful hydration can help you prevent UTIs and other complications. Then, you can focus on what really matters: living fully, having fun, and chasing your goals. As Aaron puts it: “Cathing is part of my life, but it doesn't define me. The more I take care of myself, the more I get to enjoy everything else."
People who provided testimonials received compensation from Hollister Incorporated. The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented are applicable to the people depicted. These testimonials are representative of their experience, but the exact results and experience will be unique and individual to each person.
