Pediatric Catheters for Children
180 Medical has over two decades of experience in helping children and families find the pediatric catheter supplies they need with caring, personalized support from our trained Pediatric Catheter Specialists.
It’s our goal to make the process of getting your child’s pediatric catheters as easy and stress-free as possible. Get started by reaching out to request free samples or calling (877) 688-2729 to speak with one of our Pediatric Catheter Specialists.
Types of Pediatric Catheter Supplies
As a parent or caregiver, you want your child to feel comfortable with their catheterization needs, whether you’re in charge of cathing them or they’re learning how to self-catheterize on their own. Part of that process is finding the right pediatric catheter for your child, based on their prescription and your health insurance plan.
Here are the common types of intermittent pediatric catheter supplies, including what makes each option different.
Straight (Uncoated) Pediatric Catheters
Straight catheters are the original technology with a simple, straightforward design. An uncoated catheter requires manual application of catheter lubricant before use.
- May be a more cost-effective option for some, depending on insurance coverage
- Simple pediatric length catheter (typically 10 inches long)
- Some options may be available with a luer end (no funnel end)
- Requires application of catheter lubricant
Hydrophilic and Ready-to-Use Catheters for Children
Hydrophilic catheters feature a special coating or technology that interacts with water to create a slippery lubrication.
Some pediatric hydrophilic catheters may need to be manually activated with an included water packet, such as the GentleCath Glide™ (16 inches long, available in smaller pediatric French sizes) or the Cure® Pediatric Hydrophilic Catheter.
Others may come pre-activated and ready to use, like the all-silicone BD Magic3 GO® Pediatric Catheter.
- Does not require additional, separate lubricant
- Smooth, slippery water-activated technology
- Often includes no-touch handling sleeves to reduce the risk of hand contamination
- Ready-to-use options available
Pediatric Closed System Catheters
Closed system catheters are all-in-one options with integrated or attached urine collection bags. These typically include either a pre-lubricated or hydrophilic catheter.
This type of pediatric catheter can be helpful for cathing away from home, such as on trips, in public restrooms, or at school. It may also be a good option for children in wheelchairs, who may be able to catheterize without having to transfer from their chair in some cases.
- Attached or integrated collection bag
- No-touch handling
- May be good for travel or cathing away from home
- Some include kits of insertion supplies, such as gloves, antiseptic wipes, and disposal bags
Pediatric Catheters from Trusted Brands
At 180 Medical, we understand that each child has unique needs, which is why we carry a wide range of catheter types and options from leading brands, including Cure, Coloplast, BD, Hollister, GentleCath, and more.
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Depending on your child’s prescription and insurance, available options may include:
- Uncoated pediatric straight catheters
- Hydrophilic and pre-lubricated pediatric catheters
- Discreet, ready-to-use options
- Pediatric closed system catheter kits
Here are just a few of the pediatric catheter options we carry:
Get Help with Free Samples and Pediatric Catheters
Whether you’re comparing pediatric catheter options, wondering about insurance coverage, or looking for more resources to help your child learn about catheters, 180 Medical is here to help.
When you choose 180 Medical as your child’s catheter supplier, you get:
- Wide variety of pediatric catheters from trusted, high-quality brands
- Help navigating your insurance plan’s coverage for catheters
- Free pediatric catheter samples, based on prescription and insurance
- Discreet, free delivery to your home
- Friendly service from trained, US-based Pediatric Catheter Specialists
- Helpful resources for learning catheterization through the 180 Medical Kids Club
- Simple reordering options and shipment tracking, including the My 180 Medical App
Why Families Choose 180 Medical for Pediatric Catheter Supplies
Finding the right catheter supplies and a reliable provider can be a lot to manage when you’re also balancing your child’s health and comfort.
180 Medical helps make the process easier with personalized support from our trained Pediatric Catheter Specialists who will listen, answer your questions, and work with your healthcare provider to get your child the catheters they’ve been prescribed.
Here’s how easy it is to get started:
- Tell us what your child needs. Request free samples online or contact us, and we’ll ask a few questions about your catheter supply needs, prescription, and insurance coverage.
- We’ll handle the details. Our team will verify your insurance benefits, help you explore your covered product options, and coordinate with your child’s healthcare provider to get a prescription and any additional documentation that may be needed.
- Your child’s catheters ship discreetly to your home. Once your order is set up, we’re here to provide ongoing support.
The 180 Medical Kids Club for Parents, Caregivers, and Children
Families deserve dependable support and clear education as they navigate their child’s healthcare and catheter needs.
The 180 Medical Kids Club was created to help parents, caregivers, and children feel more comfortable with the process of learning to use catheters.
Why sign up for the 180 Medical Kids Club?
- Helps normalize catheter usage through engaging stories and fun activities featuring our characters, Ethan and Emma
- Fun activities and clear instructions for learning how to catheterize
- Ongoing support for parents and caregivers
Joining is easy and free. You can sign up to receive a special 180 Medical Kids Club backpack, a storybook, and other surprises, all designed to make this journey a little easier.
Here are a few more helpful resources to get started:
- Pediatric Catheterization Instructions and Video Guides for Boys and Girls
- Tips for Talking to Your Child About Catheters
- Tips for Going to School with Catheters, which includes input from pediatric urology nurses
Answers to Common Questions About Pediatric Catheters
How do I know which catheter French size is right for my child?
To determine the right size for your child, please consult a prescribing healthcare professional, such as your child’s pediatric urologist. They can determine the correct size for your child’s anatomy for optimal comfort and bladder drainage.
Can my child learn to self-catheterize on their own?
Many children are able to learn to self-cath. However, this depends on the individual and their age, dexterity, and comfort level.
180 Medical offers several educational resources to support you and your child during the learning process, including the 180 Medical Kids Club.
Your pediatric urologist, urology nurse, or another qualified healthcare professional may also offer in-office training.
How often should my child catheterize?
The frequency of your child’s catheterization routine is determined by their pediatric urologist or other prescribing healthcare professional.
For answers regarding your child’s catheterization needs and how many times per day they need to cath, consult with their prescribing healthcare provider.
What are pediatric catheters?
Pediatric catheters are intermittent catheters made in smaller French sizes designed to fit children, including infants and adolescents.
They are also 10 inches long on average, which is shorter than adult male catheters.
Are pediatric catheters covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage for pediatric catheters can vary, depending on your plan. If you’re not sure how your insurance covers the catheters your child has been prescribed, 180 Medical’s Insurance Specialists can verify your coverage and find out what is required.
Then our specialists can reach out, review your coverage and possible covered product options based on your plan and your child’s prescription, and help you explore available free samples.