Supra pubic catheter questions

Hi Hunter,I can offer something here. Indwelling catheters are actually safer since it's permanent in a sense and the body isn't constantly being subjected to invasive procedures as would be with in&out or intermittent cath exposing it to germs and risk of infection. An indwelling such as Foley carbs are some better but still are usually changed more often then SPs.

They're more convenient to clean and less restrictive during personal intimacy. Larger size catheters can be used lowering the risks for blockages to occur.

Naturally it requires a simple most often times outpatient stay. They can be painful for a few weeks post insertion and may continue to have some discharge during the life of the catheter. Many just use a 4x4 cut with a hole in the center to keep it dry. The biggest problem I have seen with them is making sure you have to make sure your not allergic or sensitive to the cath material as this can cause constant irritation at insertion site. Folks tend to develope small blisters on the skin surrounding the SP. This can be avoided by using only catheters made of materials your not sensitive to. You wouldn't want to use latex if your prone to be sensitive, you would use silicone or something else.

The great thing is its placement is actually low enough you can wear swimsuits and such and if you nolonger need it or change your mind the SP is simply removed and the hole closes nicely and quickly leaving only a small scar.

Hope that helps in some way and good luck!

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Vickie
CHRONIC PAIN MODERATOR