Bladder catheterization in medical terminology is a procedure carried out to empty urine from the bladder. Those who experience urinary retention (difficulty in emptying of bladder) are the target patients for this medical process. It may be due to a variety of medical issues, such as:

Enlargement of the prostate
Injury to the spinal cord

The treatment is generally considered safe. Patients who are on a long-term catheterization process will have to manage the catheter on their own or have a caretaker assist them. Regardless of this, healthcare experts usually provide education and training on the proper use of catheters. It makes sure that patients and caregivers know how to take care of the catheter and keep it fresh. Furthermore, this medical procedure in India is moderately priced. This makes treatment accessible to a wider range of patients.

Types of Bladder Catheterization

Although there are several types of urinary catheters, 2 types are discussed below.

Intermittent Catheters: Put into the bladder through the urethra to make it empty and later it is removed. It can be used many times a day.
Indwelling Catheters: Put into the bladder or through the wall of the stomach. Foley catheter is an example. It is placed for days or weeks.

What Necessitates a Catheter?

Below are some points that give rise to the use of a catheter and include:

An impediment in the urethra.
Damage to the urethra.
Defects in the urinary tract that evolve when a person is born.
An unhealthy and large prostate in men.
Nerve damage or weakness in bladder.
Cancer within the urinary tract or reproductive organs.

Risks of Bladder Catheterization

Bacteria entering into the human body is the main risk associated with the use of this medical device. This increases the tendency for infection in the bladder or kidneys. Some perils of this medical procedure include:

Bladder spasms
Infections like UTIs
Leakage surrounding the catheter
Development of bladder stone after a certain time.

Procedure of Bladder Catheterization Surgery

Hospitals or clinics are the different places where this procedure can be carried out. A sterile medium, when used, decreases the risks of infections.

In the beginning, the patient is made comfortable. And gradually, the urethra region is cleaned with an antiseptic and sterilized.
In the next stage, insert the catheter into the urethra. It will ensure its travels precisely up to the bladder.
Once inside the bladder, the urine is emptied with the help of a catheter into a collection bag.
The period up to which the catheter stays in the bladder varies. And it depends on the procedure employed.
In case of a catheter for a short duration, the catheter may not be needed when the bladder is made empty.
If catheterization is for the long term, then it is likely to be in place for many days or weeks.
Here, the patient or his caretaker will be guided on how to manage the catheter and its cleanliness.
Although this medical procedure is safe, there are certain risks that cannot be ignored and include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Damage to the urethra
Aftercare instructions should be followed with care. And any unusual symptom or irritation should be reported instantly.

Living With a Catheter

A bladder catheter should not prevent you from doing your daily activities. Your doctor will tell you when it is safe to go to work, do exercises, go on holidays and enjoy sex. Below are some tips to carry on day-to-day activities with a urinary catheter:

Support Help: You can look for some support groups and raise your concern on different social platforms, such as Facebook, YouTube, etc.
Place the Bag Below the Bladder: The drainage bag should be placed below the level of the bladder.
Get Ready: Emptying the catheter on a regular basis is necessary. Keep extra catheters ready in case of emergency.
Hydration: This is also important as water prevents blockage and urinary tract infections. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will keep your urine flow normal and at optimum level.