Frequently Asked Questions about Intermittent Catheters
Have questions about urinary catheters? This FAQ answers common questions about intermittent catheter use, catheter types and sizes, and daily use. Plus, we answer a few quick questions about catheter billing and insurance.
If you have additional questions about ordering, shipping, billing, or managing your 180 Medical account, please visit our Help Center or contact us for more support.
Catheter Basics
First, let’s go over some basics and answer the most common questions about intermittent urinary catheters, including the reasons for using them, types, sizes, and product options.
Why do people need to use intermittent catheters?
Intermittent catheterization is one of the common prescribed treatments for someone whose bladder has stopped working. Most commonly, people use catheters because of incomplete bladder emptying or urinary bladder retention, which just means the bladder does not empty fully on its own.
Some people may also use intermittent catheters if they’re living with a condition like spina bifida, a spinal cord injury, neurogenic bladder, multiple sclerosis (MS), an enlarged prostate, or after certain treatments or surgeries that impact bladder function.
Do I need a prescription to get intermittent catheters?
Yes, urinary catheters are prescription-only medical supplies. To use them, whether you go through insurance or buy your catheters online, you’ll need a valid, up-to-date prescription.
What types of catheters are available at 180 Medical?
As one of the leading suppliers of intermittent catheters in America, 180 Medical offers a full selection of all catheter types and brands to fit our customers’ diverse needs.
Depending on your prescription and insurance coverage, you may be able to choose from a variety of types, including:
- Uncoated catheters with separate sterile lubricant
- Straight or coudé tip options
- Hydrophilic and ready-to-use catheters
- Closed system catheter kits
- Pediatric catheters for children
- Pocket catheters
- And more!
To learn more about the different types of intermittent catheters, check out our complete guide to intermittent catheter types.
What size catheter should I use?
The correct French size catheter to use is based on your unique anatomy and needs. Your prescribing healthcare provider is the right person to go to if you’re not sure about what size to use.
Catheter French sizes come in a range of sizes to suit a variety of needs, from 6 French (typically best suited for infants and children) up to 24 French. On average, most adults use between 10 and 18 French.
Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate catheter size for you.
What length of catheter should I use?
The right length for you will depend on your body and your preferences.
Catheters are typically available in three average lengths:
- Male length (16 inches)
- Female length (6 inches)
- Pediatric length (10 inches)
Men require longer catheters because the male anatomy has a longer urethra. Women and children have shorter urethras.
However, women can sometimes choose when they prefer a longer catheter. And men can still find discreet pocket catheter options, despite needing a longer catheter tube to reach the bladder.
What is a coudé tip catheter?
A coudé catheter is a type of catheter with a curved or bent insertion tip. Coudé catheters are only used when someone cannot pass a straight tip catheter.
Talk to your urologist or prescribing healthcare professional if you’re having difficulty inserting your catheter.
I’m not sure which catheter is right for me. Can 180 Medical help?
Yes, absolutely. Our Catheter Product Specialists are highly trained and have years of experience in helping our customers try and choose the intermittent catheter that works best for their unique needs.
We’ll coordinate with your prescribing healthcare professional and your health insurance to determine which product options are available to you based on your prescription and insurance coverage. Get started by requesting samples!
What materials are catheters made of?
The three most common catheter materials are vinyl, red rubber latex, and silicone. Depending on the brand and type, catheters can vary in feel and flexibility.
Since everyone’s preferences, anatomy, and needs are unique, no single type of catheter material will be ideal for everyone. Feel free to contact one of our Catheter Specialists to try out some options and find which catheter material works best for you!
What brands of catheters does 180 Medical carry?
180 Medical carries the most complete selection of catheter supplies from trusted brands and top manufacturers, including BD (Bard), Cure Medical, Coloplast, GentleCath, Hollister, Rusch, LoFric, TruCath, CompactCath, Medline, and more. It’s our goal to provide the highest-quality catheter options with the very best service and support.
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How can I get free catheter samples?
We make it easy to get started. Just fill out this quick form to request free catheter samples, and one of our specialists will follow up with you to go over your product options.
We may ask for basic contact information, your healthcare provider’s information, insurance details, and your prescription, if available.
Catheter Use and Safety
Can I reuse intermittent catheters?
Intermittent catheters are single-use medical devices. For your health and safety, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the directions on your catheter packaging.
Reusing catheters may increase the risk of irritation, contamination, or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Learn more about the risks of reusing catheters.
What can I do to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs)?
Practicing good hygiene and learning sterile intermittent catheterization are great first steps.
To learn more about what you can do to help reduce your risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infection, check out these helpful tips.
How do I insert a catheter?
180 Medical offers self-catheterization instruction guides online, including step-by-step videos with tips for insertion, hygienic preparation, draining urine, and disposal.
How do I know when the catheter has reached my bladder?
Once the catheter insertion tip has entered your bladder, urine should begin to flow from the catheter’s funnel end.
Does inserting a catheter hurt?
No, typically, inserting an intermittent catheter should not hurt or cause pain. Some people who use catheters have described those first few times as feeling unfamiliar or even a bit uncomfortable as they started the process of self-catheterization. But with time and practice, it should get easier.
Pain, burning, or bleeding during catheter use are warning signs. If you experience pain or you’re having difficulty inserting your catheter, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
When should I call my doctor?
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider.
- Urinary tract infection symptoms (Fever, pain in the pelvic area, cloudy or smelly urine)
- Pain or bleeding when using catheters
- Unusual sediment in urine
- Difficulty with insertion
- No urine or barely any urine flowing out of the catheter
Can I use my catheters in a public restroom?
Absolutely, yes. Catheterizing in public restrooms is something plenty of people do every day when they can’t be in the comfort of their own homes. Whether you’re out shopping, at work, or on vacation, you can discreetly self-cath.
Some people like to carry opaque paper or plastic bags with them when they know they’ll be cathing in a public restroom, so they can discreetly tuck their used supplies inside the bag before disposing of them in the trash. Here are a few other ways to be discreet with your catheter supplies.
Can I travel with catheters?
Yes, many people travel with their catheters every day.
The key is to plan ahead of time and make sure you’ll have plenty of supplies on hand in case of unexpected flight delays or lost luggage. You may also want to explore discreet options, such as pocket catheters, before your trip.
180 Medical offers a free downloadable guide for Traveling with Catheters.
For more questions about catheter types, how to use catheters, and general troubleshooting, 180 Medical offers lots of helpful resources on our Help Center and our blog.
Ordering and Insurance
How much do intermittent catheters cost?
The cost of intermittent catheters depends on your individual health insurance plan, the type of catheter you use, the number of catheters prescribed each month, and whether you have any deductible, copay, or coinsurance costs.
180 Medical works with insured customers and bills your insurance directly for covered catheter supplies. Our Insurance Specialists can verify your catheter coverage and help you understand your estimated out-of-pocket costs (if any) before your supplies ship.
Does insurance cover catheters?
Yes, many health insurance plans, including Medicare, now cover intermittent catheters for sterile use.
How many catheters does my insurance cover?
Each insurance plan is different. To find out what your plan covers, reach out to us to verify your coverage.
Do I have to pay my out-of-pocket costs upfront before I receive my order?
No, 180 Medical will first bill your private insurance, Medicare, and/or Medicaid for covered urinary catheters. There is no need to pay anything up front. We don’t want you to have to wait for reimbursement when you get your supplies through our company.
Why are 180 Medical’s catheter prices not listed online?
180 Medical does not set or determine the price of intermittent catheters. Insurance companies are responsible for setting a price per catheter, just as your out-of-pocket cost is based on your insurance plan’s catheter coverage.
Which insurance networks is 180 Medical contracted with?
180 Medical is an ACHC-accredited provider contracted with over 1,600 insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid programs in most states. We also accept a wide and growing number of private insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tricare, Cigna, Humana, and Aetna.
What is the shipping and delivery cost for my supplies?
180 Medical ships catheter supplies for FREE across the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. You’ll receive your orders discreetly and on time, right to your doorstep. We offer easy reordering options, including automatic shipment plans (depending on your insurance plan’s requirements).
Where can I find more answers about billing, shipping, reordering, or my account?
For more quick answers to all your account questions, please visit our Help Center or contact us for support.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Information provided on 180medical.com should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.