Catheters

During surgery a small tube or catheter is put into the bladder through the penis so that urine can be drained into a collecting bag. This is usually done while the patient is anesthetised, so nothing is felt at that stage. To prevent blood clots blocking the catheter, bladder irrigation may also be used.

After a transurethral resection the catheter is usually removed before the patient goes home from hospital. After a radical prostatectomy the catheter is usually left in place for one to two weeks, to allow the bladder and urethra to heal. Thus, men who have a radical prostatectomy usually manage their catheters at home for a while and then return to hospital to have them removed. 

Comments how the catheter was removed before leaving hospital.

Describes how painful it was to pass water after the catheter was removed.

Describes his difficulties with the catheter.

Comments on how he found the catheter most uncomfortable.

Describes what it was like to have the catheter in at home.

Comments on how he found the catheter no problem at all.

Explains his initial embarrassment at having a catheter and then soreness when removed.

Occasionally, men with prostate cancer find it impossible to pass urine without a catheter, so they may have to live with a permanent catheter, which is usually changed every two to three months.

Describes living with a permanent catheter.

Last reviewed January 2012

Last updated January 2010.