Incontinence – Sheaths & Catheters

Externally worn protection

A penis pouch or condom catheter can be used by men suffering from incontinence following treatment for prostate cancer, for example. This is a sheath that is worn around the penis and drains urine into a bag held against the leg.

A complete system such as the one shown here, comprises cotton boxers or jock-strap style briefs, with a curved receptacle inside a front pocket which channels urine into a reusable collection bag. The double sealed bag contains odours effectively, preventing embarrassment.

No uncomfortable straps or tubes are needed: you just attach the bag directly to the ergonomic receptacle, through the briefs, to enjoy hours of use without changing. The receptacle fits loosely, without any need for adhesive, and its double-wall design reduces exposure to residual urine.

It is suitable for managing severe leakage, and is available on NHS prescription.
 

Indwelling and intermittent catheters

Indwelling catheters and their associated leg bags are devices that should only be used under medical supervision. Indwelling catheters remain in place for extended periods of time (they need to be changed monthly), and are fitted by a nurse.

Any catheter is essentially a thin, soft, flexible tube, which is inserted into the urethra, to drain urine from the bladder.

Intermittent catheters, used for self-catheterisation, drain the urine from the bladder at intervals, and are not left in place. For an individual who is able to self-catheterise, or who has a carer who can assist, intermittent catheters are a better solution than indwelling.

Inserting a catheter is a simple and safe procedure, once it has been learned correctly, and intermittent catheters bring less risk of infection than those that remain in place for longer.

We have an article here on intermittent self catheterisation (ISC)