Catheterization explained
Urinary catheterization is a routine in-office urology procedure with several important uses — from collecting an accurate urine specimen to relieving acute urinary retention. Local anesthetic is used to minimize discomfort, no preparation is needed, and you can drive yourself home.
Understanding catheterization
Catheterization involves the insertion of a small, flexible tube into the bladder through the urethra. Before insertion, local anesthetic jelly is applied to minimize discomfort. The procedure is straightforward, brief, and performed routinely in our office.
In most cases, the catheter is removed immediately after its purpose is complete. In other cases — particularly when a patient is unable to urinate on their own — the catheter may be left indwelling, connected to a drainage bag, until normal urination resumes.
Three main reasons
Catheterization is performed for one of three primary purposes, each with a clear clinical goal.
Urine specimen collection
To obtain a clean, uncontaminated urine sample for laboratory analysis — particularly useful when an accurate diagnostic specimen is needed without contamination from external sources.
Post-void residual measurement
To measure how much urine remains in the bladder after voiding. While we typically use a non-invasive bladder scan for this, catheterization may be used when direct measurement is needed.
Urinary retention relief
To drain the bladder when a patient is unable to urinate on their own. This provides immediate relief from acute urinary retention and is sometimes the first step in evaluating an underlying cause.
Two main types
The type used depends on why the catheterization is being performed.
Straight catheter
A single-use catheter that’s removed immediately after the bladder has been drained or sampled. Often called an “in-and-out” catheter. This is the most common type used in office settings.
Indwelling (Foley) catheter
A catheter that’s left in place and connected to a drainage bag when continued bladder drainage is needed — typically because a patient can’t urinate on their own. The bag is emptied as needed and the catheter stays in until urination resumes.
The essentials
Local anesthetic
Numbing jelly is used to minimize discomfort during insertion
Quick
The procedure itself is brief and performed in our office
No prep needed
No special preparation required — eat, drink, take medications as usual
Drive yourself
No sedation — drive yourself to and from the appointment
What to expect
The procedure is straightforward. Here’s what happens during your visit.
Position & prep
You’ll lie comfortably on the exam table. No prep needed from your side.
Local anesthetic
Anesthetic jelly is applied to numb the area and reduce discomfort.
Catheter inserted
A small flexible tube is gently inserted to reach the bladder.
Goal completed
Sample collected, volume measured, or drainage established. Catheter removed if not needed indwelling.
Normal aftereffects & warning signs
What’s normal
When to reach out
Schedule with our urology team.
Whether you’ve been advised that catheterization is needed for diagnostic workup or you’re experiencing urinary retention symptoms, we’re here to help — with skilled, compassionate care.