Spina Bifida and Catheter Supplies
Spina bifida can affect the way the bladder and bowel work, which is why some children and adults with spina bifida use intermittent catheters as part of their bladder management plan.
At 180 Medical, we understand that learning to use catheters can take some adjustment, especially for parents and caregivers who are new to catheterizing their child with spina bifida. Our Catheter Specialists are here to make things easier with personalized service, product and insurance support, free catheter samples, and lots of helpful resources for every stage of life with spina bifida.
Spina Bifida and Intermittent Catheter Use
Spina bifida is a congenital developmental disorder that typically occurs during fetal development. This condition involves the incomplete closure of the neural tube, also known as a neural tube defect.
The effects of spina bifida differ from person to person. Some people may have challenges with:
- Mobility challenges
- Neurogenic bladder or bowel
- Hydrocephalus
- Learning disabilities
- Scoliosis
- Latex allergies
For individuals with neurogenic bladder or a bladder that doesn’t completely empty on its own, intermittent catheterization may be an option their healthcare provider recommends, depending on their unique situation, needs, and medical history.
You don’t have to figure this all out on your own. Whether you or your child is new to using catheters or you’re just looking for a reliable catheter supplier, 180 Medical’s Catheter Specialists can help you review available product options and try free samples from leading brands (based on insurance and prescription).
Catheter Supplies and Support for Children, Teens, and Adults with Spina Bifida
At 180 Medical, we carry a wide range of intermittent catheters for children, teens, and adults. Depending on your prescription, insurance coverage, catheter French size, and preferences, you may be able to choose from options like:
- Uncoated straight catheters
- Coudé tip catheters (when this tip is medically necessary)
- Closed system catheter kits
- Pre-lubricated and ready-to-use catheters
- Compact and pocket catheters for discreet carrying
Whether you or your child is new to using catheters or you’re just looking for a reliable catheter supplier, 180 Medical’s Catheter Specialists can help you review available product options and try free samples from leading brands (based on insurance and prescription).
Here are just a few of the many catheter options available:
Spina Bifida Catheter Resources and Real Stories from the Community
At 180 Medical, our support for the spina bifida community goes beyond providing catheter supplies. We’re here to provide helpful resources for our catheter customers, including tips and video guides for how to use catheters at HowToCath.com.
Our 180 Medical Patient Advocate, Brendan, lives with spina bifida and shares personal insight, encouragement, and practical tips for others in the spina bifida community.
Some of his articles include:
- Going to College with Spina Bifida
- 5 Things to Know About Life as an Adult with Spina Bifida
- Gaining Independence with a Disability
- Paying It Forward: Brendan’s Spina Bifida Story
- Growing Up with Spina Bifida
There are also members of the 180 Medical community who have shared their stories of either living with spina bifida or caring for a child who uses catheters due to spina bifida.
We’d love for you to meet Sarah and her mother, Margo.
180 Medical Kids Club for Parents of Children with Spina Bifida
If you think your child is ready to start intermittent self-catheterization, check out the 180 Medical Kids Club. 180 Medical created their Kids Club as a fun way to help your child adjust to the new process of self-cathing with unique and colorful educational material. In addition, they’ll receive fun activities that will help them learn to use catheters correctly to stay hygienic and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.
Through the 180 Medical Kids Club, your child will meet Ethan and Emma, 180 Medical’s own storybook characters with spina bifida. Ethan and Emma help familiarize you and your child with self-cathing. Plus, Ethan and Emma help make catheterization a normal, healthy part of your new daily routine.
