Catheterization Pain Measures

2026-04-24

Under normal circumstances, intermittent catheterization does not cause pain. Patients who undergo the initial catheterization may experience a little discomfort, but this usually improves after getting accustomed to the procedure. By analyzing the causes of catheterization pain, corresponding measures can be taken to reduce the occurrence of pain during catheterization. 
 
II. Measures to solve catheterization pain
1. Relax the Emotions
Patients should try to relax during the insertion of the urinary catheter and eliminate any tension. Taking a hot bath or doing some light exercises before the catheter insertion can make them feel more relaxed. If there is resistance during insertion, try coughing a few times. If the patient is in a wheelchair, move to the edge of the wheelchair to relieve the pressure on the perineum and avoid pressing on the urethra. Coughing or changing positions can help maintain relaxation and facilitate the insertion of the catheter. 
 
2. Selecting the appropriate urinary catheter
It is essential to choose a urinary catheter with a sufficiently smooth surface and smooth edges at the drainage holes, and the diameter should be appropriate.
2.1 For adult catheterization, the preferred diameter for the catheter should be 12-14Fr.
2.2 For children under 6 months of age, a catheter with a diameter of 5Fr should be used.
2.3 For children over 6 months of age, male children should start with a diameter of 6-8Fr, and female children should start with 8Fr. The appropriate diameter should be selected based on the specific condition of the child.
2.4 If there are any problems during the insertion process, or if blood clots or debris (sediment) are found in the urine, it often indicates that the current diameter is not suitable. It is necessary to consult a professional doctor. 
 
3. Standardize catheterization procedures
3.1Before inserting the catheter, thoroughly lubricate it or choose a hydrophilic-coated catheter to ensure continuous lubrication during the catheterization process, reducing the irritation and friction on the catheter and protecting the urethral mucosa. During the operation, gentle movements should be adopted. One can take a deep breath to relax the muscles throughout the body and alleviate the pain and discomfort. If there is resistance, pause the operation. Especially for those with sensitive pain, it is likely to cause a strong contraction of the urethral sphincter, increasing the resistance of the urethra. Wait until it is completely relaxed before slowly reinserting the catheter.
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3.2For male patients undergoing catheterization, special attention should be paid to the curved part of the urethra. When inserting the catheter, lift the penis to form an angle of about 60 degrees with the abdominal wall, eliminating the prepubic curvature of the urethra as much as possible. Insert the catheter slowly into the urethra. When the catheter is inserted nearly halfway and feels resistance, it indicates that the catheter has reached the second bend (the pubic concave bend). At this point, slowly lower the penis towards the thigh to form an angle of approximately 90 degrees with the abdomen. Once the resistance disappears, continue to insert.
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3.3For female patients, the insertion process is relatively simple, but it is necessary to fully understand the location of the urethral opening and insert it gently and slowly. Once urine flows out, insert an additional 2 centimeters. If the catheter accidentally enters the vagina, a new catheter should be replaced for the operation. 
 
4. Summary
When encountering problems related to catheter insertion pain, there is no need to worry. The pain is temporary and can be alleviated by replacing the appropriate catheter, following proper catheterization procedures, etc. For individuals with complete spinal cord injury, as they cannot feel pain and lack feedback from the urethra, they should master the techniques of catheterization even more, choose high-quality catheters, and try to avoid any improper operations that may cause damage.
 
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