According to 2026 statistics from the American Cancer Society, around 333,830 men in the United States may be diagnosed with prostate cancer annually. After prostate cancer surgery or certain treatments, some men may experience issues like bladder retention or urinary incontinence. And in certain cases, a healthcare provider may recommend using intermittent catheters as a treatment option when an individual is no longer able to urinate completely on their own.
We’ll go over a little bit more about this common cancer and review the different male catheter options in this guide. Curious about your catheter options now? Reach out to us to get started.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the prostate gland, a small organ that produces seminal fluid, begin to grow out of control. It’s one of the most common cancer types in men, often diagnosed in males over 50.
While some forms of prostate cancer are slow-growing, others can be more aggressive and may require more intense treatment.
Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. In fact, according to ZERO Prostate Cancer, the “5-year survival rate for prostate cancer diagnosed in its earliest stages is over 99%.” So that points to the importance of regular screenings and going to the doctor at the first sign of abnormal symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
Many times, early-stage prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, there are a few signs to watch out for, which include:
- Difficulty urinating (weak or slow stream)
- Increased frequency of urination, especially at night
- Blood appearing in urine or semen
- Unexplainable fatigue and/or weight loss
- Pain in the hips or lower back
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
If you experience any out-of-the-ordinary symptoms, talk to your urologist or healthcare provider. A qualified healthcare professional is the only one who can properly diagnose and treat the issue.
Tips for Using Catheters After Prostate Cancer Surgery
If your urologist or other treating healthcare provider determines that using catheters after prostate cancer surgery is right for you, whether due to bladder retention or incomplete bladder emptying, here are a few helpful tips.
1. Find the right male catheter for you.
You’re unique. No one is exactly alike regarding needs, preferences, and body type. That’s why it’s important to remember that no single type of catheter or brand works for everyone.
At 180 Medical, you’re not limited to just one brand. You can choose from a wide range of male catheter options to determine what works best for you and your lifestyle. These days, intermittent catheters are designed with discretion, comfort, and optimal hygiene in mind, so you can still travel, play your favorite sports like golf, and enjoy your life without having to stay connected to a leg bag or drain bag all day.
Straight Catheters
Straight uncoated catheters must be manually lubricated with lubricating jelly before insertion. Lubrication comes separately in single-use travel-size packets or tubes. Some men prefer straight catheters due to their cost-effectiveness and practicality.
An uncoated, unlubricated catheter may cause discomfort and friction against delicate urethral tissue, so be sure to lubricate your catheter according to the package instructions and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.
Hydrophilic Catheters
Hydrophilic catheters have a coating that becomes slippery when wet. This coating replaces catheter lubricating jelly, ensuring the catheter is fully lubricated and smooth from start to finish. Many hydrophilic catheters include a water sachet that you must break to activate the coating. Some hydrophilic catheters are pre-activated in their packaging, so all you have to do is take them out, and they’re ready to use.
Pre-lubricated Catheters
Those new to self-cathing often prefer pre-lubricated catheters for their comfort, convenience, and travel-readiness. These catheters come pre-coated with lubricant, eliminating the need to touch the catheter or manually apply catheter lubricant. This can make the process faster and straightforward, particularly for travel or when away from home.
Closed System Catheters and Male Catheter Kits
Male closed system catheters are usually pre-lubricated or hydrophilic, but what makes them unique is that they come with their own sterile collection bag. This helps facilitate sterile, no-touch catheterization. Frequent travelers and those in wheelchairs also find all-in-one closed systems easier to use. These often come with additional insertion supplies like gloves, antiseptic wipes, and other accessories to keep the cathing process hygienic.
Coudé Catheters
If you encounter resistance or difficulty using a straight-tip catheter, your healthcare provider may prescribe a coudé catheter. Coudé tip catheters are available in all the above types, including pre-lubricated and hydrophilic options.
The curved tip can help maneuver past strictures or blockages, and these catheters may be especially helpful to men with an enlarged prostate.
2. Practice good hygiene.
Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after using catheters.
180 Medical provides many helpful resources for learning how to cath hygienically and safely, including step-by-step instructions we can send with your first order or online video instructions at HowToCath.com.
3. Follow your urologist’s prescribed orders.
Your urologist or prescribing healthcare provider should tell you how often to cath per day and whether you should record your urine output. They will also prescribe the right French size of your catheter to suit your anatomy.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any difficulty or pain during catheterization. Open communication is crucial not only during your recovery after prostate cancer surgery but also while you adjust to using catheters.
Where to Buy Male Catheters After Prostate Cancer Surgery
Using catheters after prostate cancer surgery can be a safe and effective way to manage your urinary function. With the support of your healthcare provider and a trustworthy catheter company like 180 Medical, you can focus on getting back to living your life to the fullest.
180 Medical is one of the leading intermittent catheter suppliers in the nation. If you’re looking for catheters online or locally, 180 Medical offers it all. You can easily contact us online or by phone to get started. We offer a wide selection of catheters, including the latest advances in catheter technology.
Our highly-trained product specialists are friendly and compassionate, and we’ll gladly help make the process of finding and using catheters as smooth as possible. Reach out to us today!
Disclaimer: Content provided on 180medical.com is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Product and sample availability may vary based on your insurance plan, prescription, and other requirements. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.
