Is a catheter valve right for me?

A catheter valve is not suitable for everyone, so before you use a catheter valve it is important to discuss this with your doctor or nurse. It's a medical device designed to be used with an indwelling urethral or suprapubic catheter and is suitable for both men and women.

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Here are some reasons why a clinician may decide that a catheter valve is not right for you:

  • You’re unable to operate the valve lever
  • You’re unable to remember to operate the valve
  • You have limited bladder capacity
  • You have reduced bladder sensation
  • You are renally impaired or have ureteric reflux
  • You have an overactive bladder

     

    A catheter valve is used as an alternative to a urine drainage bag. However, unlike bags, it allows you to maintain the normal function of your bladder by allowing it to fill and drain intermittently.

    Using a catheter valve may also help reduce your risk of catheter-related infections, catheter blockage and other catheter-related traumas.