Skip to main content
180 medical logo

How to Self-Catheterize for Women

Straight Catheters

Home   |   Closed System   |   Hydrophilic   |   Straight

How to Use an Uncoated Straight Catheter for Women

How to Use Straight Catheter for Female Self-Catheterization - two gloved hands applying catheter lubricant

Important Note: Before using an uncoated straight female catheter, apply sterile lubricating jelly to the catheter before insertion. Try applying your catheter lubricant jelly by tearing or trimming off both ends of your lubricant packet. Next, slide the catheter back and forth through the packet to fully coat it (as shown here).

Hands with gloves opening lubricant packet for straight cath

Another option is to tear or trim off the top of the packet (or use a tube of lubricating jelly) and squeeze the jelly all along the length of your catheter tube. Make sure to use a water-soluble lubricant.

Tips for How to Use a Straight Catheter for Women

We offer step-by-step instructions and instructional videos, which demonstrate how to straight cath a woman (female).

One helpful tip for women who are learning how to self-cath is to start by propping up a mirror on a stool or chair in front of you while on the toilet or in your wheelchair. This will allow you to better view the area and find the urethra more easily.

Here are a few more tips as you get started:

  1. Wash your hands

    before doing anything else.

  2. Use a mirror

    to better visualize the area.

  3. Try to start self-cathing in a room with good lighting

    or use a flashlight as you begin to practice insertion. This will help you see more clearly.

  4. Don't insert

    your catheter into your vagina.

  5. Remember, making mistakes at first may happen.

    If you drop your catheter or contaminate it by inserting it into the wrong hole, just try again with a fresh, sterile catheter.

How to Find the Female Urethra

Not sure how to find your urethra? It's easier to use a mirror so you can see the area better while self-cathing.

How to Use a Straight Catheter for Women

How to Use a Straight Catheter for Women

What Are Straight Catheters for Women?

Straight catheters are intermittent urinary catheters that are inserted to drain the bladder and then removed. Uncoated straight catheters typically require sterile lubricant before insertion and are available in shorter lengths designed for female anatomy.

In this video, 180 Medical Founder Todd Brown explains the basics of straight intermittent catheters, including why they may be a simple and practical option for some catheter users.

For women, choosing the right catheter length, size, and style can help support a catheterization routine that is comfortable and manageable. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional and the product manufacturer when using an intermittent catheter.


Learn More About Female Catheters

Printable Female Catheterization Instructions

Mature content disclaimer: Certain content may contain graphic depictions and descriptions of catheterization for informational and educational purposes, which may be offensive to some viewers. 180 Medical disclaims all responsibility for such materials.
 
Please note that this is intended to provide a general understanding of self-catheterization. It should not be used in place of a visit, call, or consultation with a physician or other healthcare provider.