Health condition
Self-catheterisation guide
Clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC) means passing a slim disposable catheter to empty the bladder, then removing it - a skill most people master quickly that protects kidneys and prevents infection.
Why trust this guide
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Editorial team
Written by our editorial team from the UK sources listed on each page.
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Sourced from guidance
Checked against current NHS and UK specialist society guidance at the time of review.
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Current for 2026
Reviewed on 2026-09-27 with the next review scheduled for 2027-09-27.
Key facts
The essentials at a glance.
The symptoms to recognise, when to seek help, which specialist to see, and what treatment usually involves.
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Who needs it: people whose bladders do not empty adequately - neurogenic bladder, retention, after certain surgery or bladder Botox - typically when residuals stay high
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Seek help for fever with cloudy urine, blood that does not settle, or inability to pass the catheter - never force it
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Specialist: a consultant urologist usually leads assessment and treatment
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The technique: wash hands, use a fresh lubricated catheter, insert until urine flows, drain fully, withdraw slowly; frequency is tailored, commonly 3-5 times daily
Understanding the condition
What it is and what happens next.
What causes it, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment routes available in the UK.
What it is and how it feels
CISC sounds daunting and turns out, for the great majority, to be quick and painless within a couple of weeks of practice - most people describe it as no more remarkable than brushing teeth. Compared with an indwelling catheter it means fewer infections, no bag, no tube between uses and normal clothing, sport, intimacy and travel. Modern catheters are slim, pre-lubricated and discreet.
Diagnosis and treatment routes
You will be taught by a specialist nurse, with positions and techniques adapted for anatomy, dexterity and lifestyle - mirrors, leg positions and compact catheter designs solve most practical hurdles. The pay-off is real: complete low-pressure emptying protects the kidneys, cuts infections from stagnant urine, and restores control over your own routine. In many parts of the UK, routine NHS referrals for this kind of problem currently take 20-45+ weeks, whereas an initial appointment with a private consultant is typically available within around two weeks.
Seeing a specialist
Who to see, and how quickly you can be seen.
The specialist for this condition is usually a consultant urologist. Your GP can refer you on the NHS, or you can arrange a private consultation directly.
A quiet reminder
This guide is for information, not medical advice.
Your GP knows your history and can tell you which parts apply to you. If in doubt, see them - and seek urgent care for any of the emergency symptoms described above.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Self-catheterisation guide.
Quick, plain-English answers to what people ask us most.
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What is clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC)?
Clean intermittent self-catheterisation means passing a slim, disposable catheter to empty the bladder, then removing it - a skill most people master with practice and can perform themselves several times a day as needed.
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Who needs self-catheterisation?
It is used by people who cannot fully empty their bladder naturally, due to conditions affecting bladder nerves or muscles, certain prostate problems, or after some types of surgery.
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Is self-catheterisation painful?
Most people find it uncomfortable rather than painful once they've learned the technique properly, and discomfort typically reduces significantly with practice and appropriate lubrication.
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How often do I need to self-catheterise?
Frequency is individualised based on how much urine remains in the bladder and symptoms, but is commonly needed several times a day, with your urology or continence team advising a specific schedule.
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What are the risks of self-catheterisation?
The main risk is urinary tract infection, which good technique and hygiene significantly reduce, alongside occasional minor discomfort or, rarely, minor trauma if not performed correctly.
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How do I learn to self-catheterise?
A specialist nurse or continence adviser typically teaches the technique in person, with practice and support until you feel confident performing it independently.
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When should I see a specialist about self-catheterisation?
Ask your urologist or GP for referral to a continence service if you're having difficulty fully emptying your bladder. A private consultant urologist can typically be seen within about two weeks.