Have a question about Self Cath.....

[fireflicker285]

Just wondering if self cath increases your risk of UTI much.....If you are very careful to keep everything clean does it "not" increase your risk of infection?

I do not do it yet...but I feel it is coming. Having alot of problems with retention and it is very uncomfortable.

Just afraid of "getting UTI's" as I do not normally get them. It has been years and years since I had one.

Thanks:D

[ICNDonna]

Any time we are catheterized, it does increase the risk of infection. That's why it's so very important to be very sure you follow your doctor's instructions when self cathing. With caution, you can help avoid infection.

Sending an encouraging hug,
Donna

[Dixiefireball]

Donna is very wise and she is right anytime we use a cath no matter how clean we keep it we run a high risk of getting an infection but its better then straining until we get the infection sometimes it feels like a win lose game of life.:(

[Mainemom]

I started doing self-caths about 6 weeks ago and as a result I have had my first uti ever so the chances are there to get them.
Kirsten