At 180 Medical, we believe it’s important to know all you can about the different types of catheters, their features, and potential benefits. With the right information, you can decide what type of intermittent catheter may be best for you.
Basics of the Different Types of Catheters
First, you should know that no single catheter brand or type works for everyone. Because we’ve specialized in catheters for nearly 2 decades, 180 Medical understands that each person’s needs, preferences, and anatomies differ. That’s why our trained specialists will listen to your needs and work together with you and your physician to help you find the best catheter for you.
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The 4 main types of urinary catheters to know are:
Straight Catheters
Straight intermittent catheters are the original urinary catheter type and remain a standard today. While they retain much of the original design, innovations like polished drainage eyelets have improved comfort and ease of use.
Since these catheters are uncoated, they require lubrication before insertion, which can be done with sterile single-use lubricant packets or a tube of jelly. They typically have one or two drainage eyelets and an insertion tip that goes into the urethra or stoma to drain the bladder.
Most straight catheters feature a funnel end for directing urine to a toilet or drain bag, but some people prefer a luer end without the funnel. For added convenience, travel-sized pocket catheters in discreet curved or U-shaped packaging are also available, making them easy to carry in a pocket or bag.
Pre-Lubricated Catheters
Pre-lubricated, ready-to-use catheters provide exceptional convenience and ease. These catheters come fully lubricated, so there’s no need to apply lubricant manually, saving time and simplifying the process. Since they’re prepped for immediate use, you can insert them straight from the packaging without touching the catheter tube, which helps minimize the risk of contamination.
Many of these catheters also feature protective guide sleeves, allowing for touch-free insertion. This helps ensure a cleaner, more hygienic experience by keeping your hands off the catheter itself. Whether at home or traveling, these catheters offer a quick, hassle-free solution for those looking for a more efficient self-catheterization process.
Hydrophilic Catheters
Hydrophilic catheters are similar to straight catheters in terms of length and insertion tip options. The main difference is that hydrophilic catheters have a unique coating that activates with water, making it lubricated and ready to use. These don’t require additional catheter lubricating jelly so you can use these with less mess and less effort.
Most variations of hydrophilic catheters include a sterile water packet inside the catheter package that will burst easily with applied pressure. This soaks the catheter and activates its lubrication.
Hydrophilic catheters are a great option because of their optimal comfort and ease of use, whether you’re cathing at home, work/school, or on the go.
Closed System Catheters
Closed system catheters are sterile options that come in a self-contained collection bag. Thanks to their ease of use, frequent travelers and people in wheelchairs often prefer closed system catheter kits.
Plus, these pre-lubricated catheters often come with additional insertion supplies like gloves, an underpad, and antiseptic wipes to minimize the risk of infection. In addition, closed systems feature introducer tips, which help bypass the highest concentrations of bacteria in the urethra.
All of the above-mentioned types of intermittent catheters are typically available in a variety of options, depending on the brand you choose, including:
- straight tip catheters
- coudé tip catheters
- male length catheters
- female length catheters
- pediatric length catheters
- pocket catheters
Alternatives to Intermittent Catheters
Indwelling Foley Catheters
If intermittent catheters are not an option, your healthcare provider may recommend an indwelling Foley catheter. They typically handle placing the Foley catheter for you. A small inflated balloon holds the Foley catheter in place in the bladder for as long as needed, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
One potential downside of using a Foley catheter is that it may increase the risk of infections like UTIs (urinary tract infections). When an indwelling catheter is left in for long periods of time, it may lead to bacterial growth in the urethra and bladder.
External Condom Catheters
External catheters, also known as condom catheters, are a non-invasive option for men who experience urinary incontinence. These catheters fit over the penis like a condom and are connected to a drainage bag to collect urine. Since they don’t require insertion into the urethra, they reduce the risk of infections commonly associated with indwelling or intermittent catheters.
External catheters are typically worn for a day and then replaced, making them a convenient solution for those who prefer a less invasive option. However, proper skin care is important to prevent irritation or discomfort.
Different Types of Materials of Catheters
Catheters come in all kinds of different materials, which can offer different benefits. For example, if you prefer a more rigid catheter, you might like vinyl catheters. A red rubber latex catheter might be a better option if you want something very flexible.
The main catheter materials to know are:
- Plastic, vinyl, or PVC
- Silicone
- Red rubber latex
- DEHP-free
- Latex-free
The material you choose comes down to personal preference. 180 Medical’s Catheter Specialists can provide free samples to help you try out different options before committing to a full order.
Intermittent Catheter French Sizes and Lengths
Your prescribing healthcare provider will determine your ideal catheter French size, which is the diameter of the catheter tube. However, you can let them know if the prescribed catheter French size feels too small or too large.
Most catheters range between 10 French to 20 Fr, although you have options for specialty sizes outside of this range. In addition, if your child requires catheterization, you can get catheters in a small pediatric size.
Curious about the different lengths of catheters available? The three main catheter lengths to know are:
- Male length catheters (typically 16 inches)
- Female length catheters (most often 6 to 8 inches)
- Pediatric length catheters (10 inches)
What Catheter Type is Right for Me?
The decision about what type and size of intermittent catheters to use should be made with your prescribing physician after a thorough assessment of your medical condition and needs.
At 180 Medical, we understand that talking about personal issues like the need for catheters may sometimes feel embarrassing. When you call us, we will treat you with the respect and compassion you deserve.
Also, we recognize that you are a unique individual with unique needs. Our catheter experts will take all of that into consideration while working to tailor your catheter supply order based on your doctor’s prescription, your insurance plan’s coverage, and your preferences.
Together, we can find the right catheter from one of the many brands we carry.
Contact us at 180 Medical to start receiving the right intermittent catheters for you!
Disclaimer: This post’s intent is to provide a general understanding of product options that are available on the market. Please do not use this information in place of recommendations from your prescribing healthcare provider. Lastly, for medical advice, please consult with your doctor.
