I’ve mentioned catheterisation in a couple of previous posts (Taking the pee and First time experience with external catheters). I have had more discussions with the bladder and bowel team. We talked about whether I might need to start intermittent self-catheterisation. It’s one of those things I doubt anyone is going to jump at the chance to do. However, a (potential) necessity. The risk of a UTI from urine retention, plus the slight increase in confidence gained from going out knowing the bladder is properly empty makes the hassle seem worthwhile.
I had a home visit from one of the specialist nurses, Claire. She talked me through the process, and asked if I had any questions having watched the tutorial videos previously. She’d brought a couple of different types to try. We went off to the loo to try one of them out. It was more straightforward than I’d imagined, but definitely feels strange. Even ignoring the audience (Claire was in the bathroom with me to make sure I was inserting it correctly, and Ruth was there to learn how to do it so she can help if I need her). Passing the catheter down past the prostate makes you feel you are instantly going to wet yourself (you don’t 🙂).
All went well. Claire left me half a dozen of each type to try over the coming week. This way, I can see if either type is better for me.