Clean Intermittent (self) Catheterization (CIC)

Posted , 6 users are following.

21Y male.

Instructor asked me to soak the catheter in boiling water for few minutes, and then using it after drying.

Can I use my catheter after soaking it in isopropyl alcohol, and then washing it with tap water? Will it cause any problems? Does my catheter have to be fully dried before using (I am using it after getting the water off and lubing it with water based lubricant)?

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Edited

    Why not just get him to prescribe a non touch lubricated catheter?

    • Edited

      After my initial CIC instruction i went home with a box of red rubber catheters and lube. 3 months later I'm getting 450 no-touch coated catheters per month. So much better if a viable option.

      I would have no idea if I just listened to my health provider... my uro told me to gather my rubber catheters and put them in the microwave to steam them clean like a baby bottle. No thanks!

  • Posted

    In the US, most insurance plans pay for 250 pre-lubricated catheters per month. They are really much easier to use than the rubber/non-lubricated reusable ones. Especially the travel versions that are super easy to use in public restrooms where you don't want anything to get bacteria on it. Magic 3 Go catheters are foldable which is cool since you can put one in your jacket pocket, hidden when you need it.

  • Posted

    Kanishq,

    Several people on this forum soak their catheters in a jar of alcohol. Of course they dry the alcohol off before use, or the alcohol would sting the urethra. I would not put them in boiling water, it might damage them.

    With the washable/re-usable catheters I usually wash them with anti bacterial soap, rinse them, and run water through the center with anti bacterial soap. I then fold it in a U shape and pour alcohol down the center, and slosh t back and forth a few times. I then hang them to dry. Before I use them again I wipe them with an alcohol wipe, and give them a couple minutes to dry.

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