I had this fitted at the start of Feb 2018. Prior to this I was self cathetering 6 times a day. The catheter is doing a great job however I’m struggling to accept it and am still very self conscious about it when I’m out. I’m due to have a supra pubic cath fitted later this year. Can anyone advise me how long it should take me to accept it and the limitations that come with it. Thanks
Getting used to a catheter takes time. You can contact your GP or a specialist for advice if you can’t live your normal life. The time it takes to adjust to it varies for each individual, however, it is vital to have as much support from healthcare services as possible.
Use a bigger leg bag when going out, as it can hold more urine. Take catheter supplies with you when you are away from home for a long time, just in case. You also have to watch what you eat and ensure you don’t become constipated. pressure from a full bowel can result in an obstruction in the flow of urine down the catheter.
Have you been told how to reduce the risk of complications such as infections?