Condition guide · Bladder care
Intermittent catheterization: a practical guide
When the bladder doesn't empty on its own, intermittent catheterization — passing a thin tube to drain the bladder at set times, then removing it — becomes a safe, routine part of the day. Here's a plain-language look at how it works and what to know.
Educational overview drawn from public health sources (e.g., NIH, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases).Educational information, not medical advice — talk with your physician about what's right for you.
What is intermittent catheterization?
A catheter is a thin, flexible tube used to drain urine from the bladder. With intermittent catheterization, the tube is inserted, the bladder is emptied, and the catheter is removed — repeated several times a day. That's different from an indwelling (Foley) catheter, which stays in place continuously.
Who needs it?
It's used whenever the bladder can't empty fully on its own, from many different causes:
- Spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or spina bifida
- Nerve conditions affecting bladder control
- An enlarged prostate or a urethral blockage
- Recovery after certain surgeries
Why regular emptying matters
Draining the bladder on a schedule keeps urine from backing up, which lowers the risk of infections and protects the kidneys and bladder over the long term. Your care team sets the schedule that's right for you.
Clean technique basics
A nurse or continence specialist teaches the technique hands-on. The essentials are clean hands, clean supplies, and a fresh single-use catheter each time — sterile and touch-free options exist for people at higher risk of infection. This is an overview, not a substitute for that training.
Living with it day to day
Catheters are discreet and portable, and most people carry on with work, exercise, and travel with a little planning around supplies. The routine becomes second nature quickly.
Need catheters delivered on a schedule? Check your Medicare coverage.
Check your Medicare coverage in one step, or talk to an intake specialist — no cost or commitment to check.
Common questions
Are catheters covered by Medicare?+
Yes — Medicare Part B covers medically necessary intermittent catheters and related supplies for people who need them. See our coverage page for the quantity rules, or check your eligibility below.
How many catheters will Medicare cover?+
Medicare generally covers up to about 200 sterile intermittent catheters per month (one per catheterization), when medically necessary and documented — details are on our coverage page.
Have a question?
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