Finding the right catheter is an important part of managing urinary health and ensuring daily comfort. At Express Medical Supply, we make it simple to buy catheters online with a wide selection of trusted brands, multiple sizes, and discreet shipping options. Whether you need an everyday intermittent catheter, an external condom catheter for male incontinence, or a Foley catheter for longer-term use, you can find everything you need in one place.
We carry top brands such as Bard, Coloplast, Cure, Hollister, ConvaTec, and Rusch, with products for men, women, and pediatric patients. Our inventory also includes catheter insertion kits, drainage bags, extension tubing, and lubricating jelly, making it easy to order all your supplies together.
Catheters are medical devices used to assist people who have difficulty controlling or emptying their bladder. They come in various forms, including thin tubes that are inserted into the body or external devices worn on the outside of the body.
All catheters must be sterile to prevent infection, and it is important to seek medical advice when deciding which catheter is right for you.
The three main types of urinary catheters are:
Intermittent catheters are thin, flexible tubes temporarily inserted to drain the bladder for people with urinary retention. Once the bladder is emptied, the catheter is removed and discarded.
These catheters are available in:
With advancements in self-catheterization, insertion has become more comfortable and discreet. Popular brands include Rusch, Cure Medical, Medline, Hollister, and Coloplast.
External catheters, also known as condom catheters, are one-piece molded sheaths that fit over the penis to collect urine into a leg or bedside bag. They are commonly used by men with urinary incontinence as an alternative to adult diapers.
Some designs include:
Express Medical Supply offers multiple external catheter options from brands like Covidien Dover, Bard, Urocare, and Coloplast.
Foley catheters are indwelling catheters that remain inside the bladder for longer periods, typically several days or weeks. They are often used after surgery or for patients who are bedridden.
A small balloon on the catheter tip is filled with sterile water after insertion to keep the catheter in place. While in use, a drainage bag is attached to collect urine.
Securement devices are often recommended to prevent accidental pulling or dislodgement, which can cause pain or urethral damage.
Urinary catheters are commonly used to treat:
Catheters may be made of latex, silicone, or red rubber and come in different lengths and sizes to fit each individual comfortably. Always follow your doctor’s instructions when selecting a catheter type and size to avoid complications.
Each type of catheter works a bit differently:
Proper insertion technique and sterile handling are essential to reduce the risk of infection and irritation.
Catheter size is an important factor in ensuring comfort, safety, and proper bladder drainage. Catheters are measured using the French (Fr) scale, which indicates the outer diameter of the tube. A higher French number corresponds to a wider catheter tube.
Choosing the correct size helps avoid issues such as leakage, discomfort, or urethral trauma. Healthcare professionals usually recommend the smallest effective size to minimize irritation.
Typical catheter sizes include:
When selecting a catheter, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendation on both size and style, as using the wrong size can increase the risk of infection, blockage, or urethral damage.
Even when using single-use catheters, following proper hygiene practices is vital to protect your urinary tract health. Reusable catheters (when prescribed by a doctor) require special care to ensure safety.
Best practices for catheter care include:
Always consult your healthcare professional or caregiver for instructions specific to your condition and catheter type.
How long can a catheter stay in place?
Intermittent catheters are single-use and discarded after each use. Foley catheters may remain in place for several days or weeks, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Do catheters increase the risk of infection?
Any catheter can carry a risk of urinary tract infection if not handled properly. Always wash your hands before and after use and follow sterile techniques.
What sizes do catheters come in?
Catheters are measured using the French (Fr) scale. Pediatric catheters may be 6–10 Fr, while most adult catheters range from 12–18 Fr.
Are catheters painful to use?
Most users feel only mild discomfort or pressure during insertion. Using lubrication and the correct catheter size helps reduce irritation. Persistent pain should be reported to your doctor.