How is a urinary catheter inserted and is it painful?

Urinary catheter insertion is a quick procedure taking 5-10 minutes. There's discomfort but it's tolerable — and can be reduced.

Insertion Steps:

1. Preparation: Patient lies on his back. We explain the procedure and reassure.
2. Sterilization: Cleaning the urethral opening with sterile solution (Chlorhexidine or Iodine).
3. Anesthesia: Anesthetic gel (Lidocaine gel) placed in the urethra — wait 3-5 minutes to work.
4. Insertion: Catheter gently inserted slowly until urine flows — sign of reaching the bladder.
5. Inflation: Balloon inflated with 10ml sterile water — secures the catheter in the bladder.
6. Connection: Connect urine collection bag.

Is It Painful:

• With anesthetic gel: Mild discomfort — pressure and strange sensation but not sharp pain.
• Men: More discomfort due to longer urethra (20cm vs 4cm in women).
• Enlarged prostate: May need a larger catheter or special technique.

At BEIT TARIQ Center, we always use anesthetic gel and handle gently to minimize discomfort.