If you or a loved one is new to using a urinary catheter, you’re not alone—and you’re not without support. Whether it’s a short-term solution after surgery or part of a long-term care plan for a chronic condition, adjusting to life with a catheter can feel overwhelming at first.

But here’s the good news: with the right information, supplies, and a few smart strategies, you can build a comfortable daily routine that supports your lifestyle. At Piedmont Medical Solutions, we specialize in catheter and urology supplies, and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

This guide offers practical tips and tricks to help new catheter users—and their caregivers—feel more confident and prepared.

1. Know What to Expect: Start With the Basics

Before diving into routines and supplies, it helps to understand why a catheter was prescribed and what type you have. Each type has its own care routine and level of independence.

Common Types of Urinary Catheters:

  • Intermittent catheters: Inserted several times a day to empty the bladder, then removed
  • Foley (indwelling) catheters: Stay in place for a longer time with a drainage bag
  • External catheters: Worn outside the body, often used by men
  • Suprapubic catheters: Surgically placed in the lower abdomen

If you’re unsure which one you or your loved one is using, it’s a great question to ask your doctor—and a great starting point for planning daily care.

Learn More About Different Catheters

2. Build a Daily Routine That Works for You

One of the best ways to feel in control is to create a consistent routine around catheter care. This helps reduce the risk of infection, improves comfort, and gives peace of mind.

Tips to Build Your Routine:

  • Wash your hands before and after every use or cleaning
  • Clean the catheter site (if external or indwelling) with mild soap and water daily
  • Empty drainage bags regularly—usually when they’re about two-thirds full
  • Set reminders for intermittent catheterization if needed
  • Track symptoms and fluid output using a simple journal or phone app

Hydration is also essential. Drinking enough water helps flush the urinary system and reduce blockages—but follow your doctor’s guidance, especially if you have heart or kidney conditions.

3. Stay Ahead of Discomfort and Infection

It’s normal to experience a little discomfort in the beginning, but persistent pain, burning, or cloudy urine could be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI).

To Prevent UTIs and Irritation:

  • Use sterile or single-use catheters
  • Choose the correct catheter size (Piedmont can help with this!)
  • Avoid kinks in the tubing to maintain proper flow
  • Never reuse intermittent catheters unless your doctor recommends it
  • Change long-term catheters according to your care schedule

Signs of a UTI:

  • Burning or pain when urinating
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • Fever or chills
  • Bladder spasms
  • Confusion (especially in older adults)

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away.

4. Keep a Go-Bag for Life on the Move

Living with a catheter doesn’t mean giving up on getting out and about. With the right supplies and preparation, you can enjoy travel, errands, or time with family worry-free.

What to Pack in Your Catheter Travel Kit:

  • Extra catheters (individually wrapped if intermittent)
  • Lubricating jelly
  • Disposable gloves
  • Antibacterial hand wipes
  • A small trash bag
  • Travel-size hand sanitizer
  • Extra drainage bags (leg or night)

Whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store or a weekend getaway, having your essentials with you makes it easy to adapt.

5. Use the Right Catheter Supplies for Your Needs

The right type and size of catheter makes a big difference in your day-to-day comfort. Some users benefit from hydrophilic catheters, which are pre-lubricated for smoother insertion and less irritation. Others may need closed system kits for easier handling and reduced infection risk.

At Piedmont Medical Solutions, we can:

  • Help you choose the best catheter for your condition
  • Offer discreet, convenient monthly reordering
  • Work directly with your doctor to get what’s medically necessary
  • Help verify insurance or Medicare coverage

Our team is trained in urology supply support and happy to answer your questions.

Request Catheter Samples

6. Stay Active and Social (Yes, You Can!)

Many people wonder: Can I still live a normal life with a catheter?

The answer is yes! With proper care and planning, many catheter users continue their normal routines—including social events, work, hobbies, and even exercise (with doctor approval).

Tips to Stay Comfortable:

  • Use a leg strap or securement device to prevent pulling or movement
  • Choose clothing that makes access and emptying easy
  • Don’t skip hydration—being social can lead to forgetting to drink water!

A catheter doesn’t have to define your lifestyle. You’ve got options—and support.

Read Quick Catheter Articles for More Helpful Info

7. Adjusting Emotionally Is Just as Important

It’s totally normal to feel frustrated, nervous, or even embarrassed when starting catheter use. These feelings are valid—and they’re more common than you might think.

Emotional Coping Tips:

  • Talk to loved ones openly about your needs
  • Join a support group or online forum for catheter users
  • Celebrate small wins (like your first successful travel outing!)
  • Give yourself time to adjust—every journey looks different

Remember: You’re doing a great job, and you’re not alone. Let others in. You’ll find strength and encouragement from unexpected places.

8. Caring for a Loved One with a Catheter? Here’s How to Help

If you’re helping someone you care about, thank you. Caregivers play a vital role in comfort and recovery.

How to Support a Loved One:

  • Learn their care routine so you can assist confidently
  • Help monitor for signs of infection or discomfort
  • Encourage independence where possible
  • Offer emotional support—they may not ask, but it means the world

Piedmont Medical Solutions can also assist caregivers with supply questions, reordering, and education so you’re always prepared.

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9. Let Piedmont Medical Solutions Be Part of Your Support System

From choosing the right supplies to delivering them to your doorstep, Piedmont Medical Solutions is your go-to partner for catheter and urology care. We understand what you’re going through—and we’re here to make it easier.

We Can Help With:

  • Finding the best catheter for your comfort
  • Navigating insurance and Medicare
  • Monthly reordering and on-time delivery
  • Answering your questions with compassion and clarity

Need help choosing the right catheter supplies? We’re just a phone call or click away.

Contact us here or visit our Catheter Supplies page to get started.

You’ve Got This—And We’ve Got You.

Adjusting to life with a catheter is a journey—but it’s one you don’t have to make alone. With a little preparation, a lot of patience, and support from trusted providers like Piedmont Medical Solutions, you or your loved one can feel confident and comfortable moving forward.

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