Urinary retention and incontinence can affect a woman's comfort and quality of life, but female catheters offer a discreet and effective solution. These medical devices are designed to drain urine from the bladder when natural urination isn’t possible. These medical devices are available in designs suited to different medical needs and lifestyles, including both short-term and long-term options.
Express Medical Supply carries a trusted range of female catheters, including travel-friendly compact designs, hydrophilic styles for smoother insertion, and closed systems that reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Whether you’re new to self-catheterization or looking for a more comfortable option, this guide can help you compare types and find the best urinary catheter for your needs.
A female catheter is a thin, flexible medical tube inserted through the urethra into the bladder to drain urine. It's typically used when a woman cannot urinate on her own due to surgery, urinary retention, or chronic conditions like neurogenic bladder. These catheters are essential for managing bladder function and preventing complications such as urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Because the female urethra is shorter than the male urethra, female intermittent catheters are generally about 6 inches in length. However, longer catheters—like those designed for male patients, which are typically 16 inches long—can still be used by women if preferred. The choice often comes down to personal comfort and convenience.
It’s important to note that the reverse isn’t true: male patients cannot use female catheters, as they are too short to reach the bladder through the longer male urethra. Selecting the appropriate length and type of urinary catheter is key for safe and effective self-catheterization and overall urological health.
Female catheters function by bypassing the bladder neck and urethral meatus, allowing urine to flow directly into a toilet or collection bag. Intermittent styles are inserted as needed and then removed, while indwelling models remain in place and continuously drain urine. External catheters use suction to divert urine without internal insertion.
Inserting a catheter requires clean technique, privacy, and patience. Here’s a basic overview of how to safely insert one, along with the catheter supplies required:
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, especially if you’re new to self-catheterization. The process should never be painful—if you encounter resistance or discomfort, stop and consult a medical professional. Using the correct catheter size, applying adequate lubricant, and maintaining proper perineal hygiene are key to a safe and comfortable experience. Be alert for any signs of infection and seek medical advice if symptoms arise.
Choosing the right catheter depends on personal comfort, mobility, and urologic needs. Below are the different types of catheters available for female patients:
Pre-lubricated and activated with sterile water, hydrophilic catheters reduce friction during catheter insertion, making them ideal for women who cath frequently or experience sensitivity.
These discreet, lipstick-sized intermittent catheters are designed for travel and convenience. They’re pre-lubricated and minimize handling, reducing contamination risk during self-catheterization.
Packaged in a collection bag with a protective introducer tip, closed systems create a sterile field for cathing—helpful for users with limited mobility or those prone to UTIs.
Uncoated catheters are lightweight and flexible but require the user to apply lubricating jelly before insertion. They're a budget-friendly and customizable option for those experienced with self-cathing.
Luer end catheters feature a simple, straight tip and minimal packaging. They're commonly used in medical settings or when connecting to syringe setups for controlled drainage.
Funnel ends are color-coded by French size and feature a widened grip, helping users avoid touching the catheter shaft. Many prefer this style for ease of handling and visual clarity on sizing.
Does a female catheter hurt?
Catheter insertion is generally quick and relatively painless. Some women may experience slight discomfort or irritation, especially with improper sizing or technique. Using sterile, water-based lubricant or a hydrophilic catheter can reduce friction and make insertion more comfortable. If pain occurs consistently, consult a healthcare professional to assess sizing or technique issues.
How to make a female catheter more comfortable?
Use the right catheter size, choose a lubricated or hydrophilic catheter, and relax your pelvic muscles. Applying sterile, water-based lubricant helps reduce friction.
How long can a catheter stay in a woman?
Intermittent catheters are removed after each use. A Foley catheter may remain in place for days or weeks, based on your provider’s recommendation.
Can a woman take a shower with a catheter?
Yes, especially with an indwelling catheter—but keep the drainage bag secure and avoid submerging the insertion site in water.
How to sleep with a catheter (female)?
Place the collection bag below the bladder, ensure the tubing isn’t kinked, and sleep on your back or side with the bag securely strapped or placed on a stand.
What’s the difference between a catheter and a Foley?
A Foley catheter stays in place via a balloon and is used for long-term drainage. A regular female catheter (intermittent) is inserted only when needed and then removed.
Since 1994, Express Medical Supply has been a trusted provider of quality medical supplies. We specialize in female catheter products and offer:
Whether you’re managing urinary retention, incontinence, or need to track urine output, Express Medical Supply has the right female catheter for your needs—with the care and service you deserve.