SELF CATHETERISATION

Bladder Failure U.K.

Bladder failure is more common than you think. You are not alone.

Clean Intermitent Self-Catheterisation ©SC)

If your bladder does not empty, you may be asked to empty it yourself with a catheter. This is called clean intermittent self-catheterisation, usually shortened to CISC or ISC.

This page is a short introduction. Bladder Failure UK was founded by someone who self-catheterises every day.

What is CISC?

A catheter is a thin, flexible tube. In CISC you pass the catheter along the urethra, the natural passage through which urine leaves the body, until it reaches the bladder. The urine drains out. You then remove the catheter. Nothing is left in place.

“Clean” refers to careful hand washing before and after. “Intermittent” means that you do it at intervals through the day, in contrast to an indwelling catheter, which stays in all the time.

Why is it used?

CISC is used when the bladder does not empty fully. NHS patient information explains that draining the bladder in this way prevents urine from building up, which reduces the risk of urinary infection and of damage to the kidneys.

NICE, the body that issues clinical guidance for the NHS, says in its information for the public that “you should be offered an intermittent catheter if it is suitable for you and you are able to manage it, because the risk of infection is lower with this type of catheter”.

How often will I need to do it?

This varies from person to person. Your urology team or continence nurse will tell you how often is right for you.

Learning to do it

CISC is taught in person by a specialist nurse, who will show you the technique and help you choose a catheter. If you do not feel confident after you have been taught, ask to be shown again.

Many people find the idea daunting at first. It is a skill, and it becomes more familiar with practice.

We do not give step-by-step instructions here, because the technique should be taught by someone who can check that it is right for you.

Catheters and supplies

If you have a problem

If you feel unwell, think you may have a urinary infection, or have difficulty catheterising, contact your GP or your urology team.

If you cannot empty your bladder, or you need help urgently, call NHS 111. In an emergency call 999.

Living with CISC

At work.The Equality Act 2010 protects people who have a physical or mental impairment with a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities, and it requires employers to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees. If you self-catheterise, it is worth finding out whether this applies to you. Acas and Citizens Advice give free, independent advice.

Out and about. Many people carry a small kit with spare catheters and hand gel. A Radar key opens locked accessible toilets that belong to the National Key Scheme.

Travelling.It is sensible to take more catheters than you expect to need and to keep them with you.

How it feels. If being told you need to self-catheterise has left you anxious, embarrassed or low, you are not the only one. It can help to talk to other people who do it, and you are welcome to get in touch with us.

What we think needs to change

People who self-catheterise need clean and private toilets with somewhere to put supplies, employers who understand, and a benefits system that takes account of what catheterising involves. Bladder Failure UK campaigns for all three.

This is an introductory page. A fuller version, reviewed by a specialist nurse, will follow. Bladder Failure UK provides information and signposting only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always follow the advice of your own healthcare team. Page published October 2026.