Dismiss Modal

Management

Step-by-Step: Inserting a Reusable Catheter (For Vagina)

Choose a preferred language

Have your supplies ready. Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Dry them well. Wash your genitals with soap and water, rinse and dry well. Holding it at the funnel end remove the catheter from its storage bag. Lubricate two to four inches of the catheter tip. If you need practicing finding your urethra, spread your labia with one hand. Using a mirror, look for the urethral opening above the vagina. To insert the catheter, sit on the toilet, spread your labia with one hand, insert the lubricated tip into your urethra, push the catheter into your bladder, do not force it. If you feel resistance, pause and relax, then continue to push. When you see urine in the catheter, lower the funnel end so urine flows into the toilet. When urine stops flowing, pull the catheter out an inch or two until it flows again. Repeat until no more urine flows. Remove the catheter. Wash the catheter with warm water and soap. Wash your hands again and dry well. Let it dry on a clean towel for a few hours. When the catheter is dry, return it to its storage bag. Avoid touching the catheter tip.

Featured in

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
stethoscope icon

Personalized care starts with the right provider

Search by specialty, location, and more.

FIND A DOCTOR
Related Articles
Read article
Hospice Care
Step-by-Step: Getting into a Tub with a Walker

Here are the steps for getting into a tub using a walker.

Read article
Hospice Care
Patient Identification

This video explains why most healthcare providers will ask for your name and birthdate a lot during your hospital stay.

Read article
Hospice Care
Step-by-Step: Inserting a Disposable Catheter (For Penis)

This video shows the steps to insert a disposable catheter if you are a man.

Read article
Hospice Care
Marking the Procedure Site

Watch this video to understand why a procedure site will be marked as part of pre-op and that you must confirm it is correct.