Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterization

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How to perform cisc (women)

1. Assemble all equipment: catheter, lubricant, drainage receptacle.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and clean the vulva and urethral opening.

3. Lubricate the catheter.

4. Locate the urethral opening (meatus). The opening is located below the clitoris and above the vagina.

5. Spread the labia (vaginal lips) with the second and fourth finger, while using the middle finger to feel for the opening.

6. Begin to gently insert the catheter into the opening, guiding it upward as if toward the belly button.

7. Once the catheter has been inserted about 2 to 3 inches past the opening, urine will begin to flow.

8. Once the urine flow starts, continue to advance the catheter another 1 inch and hold it in place until the urine flow stops and the bladder is empty.

9. Withdraw the catheter in small increments to make sure the entire bladder empties.

10. Wash the catheter with soap and water. If the catheter is disposable, discard it right away. If it is reusable, rinse the catheter completely and dry the outside. Store the catheter in a clean, dry, secure location.

11. Record the amount of urine obtained, as instructed by your health care provider.

Some women may perform CISC standing up with one foot on the toilet. This position is also recommended when there is a question about the cleanliness of the toilet, such as in public facilities.

A CISC catheter may be reused for 2 to 4 weeks. It may be helpful to soak the catheter in a white vinegar solution once a week to control odor and remove thick mucus deposits. Other cleaning or sterilization techniques may be recommended by your health care provider if infection occurs frequently.