Long term / Permanent IDC / Foley user

[sjaeger172004]

Hi all

On Wednesday I was advised by Urologist IDC is the only permanent Option I have (still wear full on Bambino diapers) due to bowel bleeding and occasional catheter leaks due to spasms as they are the only thing I found comfortable on my skin as my skin reacts to the cloth backed diapers and pull ups dont fit my body type.

Any tips for long term Catheter users as this has hit me pretty hard even though I had researched for years and knew this was the main solution that was going to be forced upon me by my body.

Does anyone have any suggestions regarding wheelchair/ scooter accessories for my catheter as thinking of wearing a night bag when I have to use wheelchair/mobility scooter (scooter when it gets delivered) that is discrete as today I went to a disability expo in my wheelchair and my 750ml was almost at capacity by the end and no idea where the toilets were or in what state as well as was too busy talking to providers trying to find extra supports?

thanks

Edited August 3 by sjaeger172004
More info

[Slomo]

I was once told similar. It turns out, catheters are only about as long term as botox injections. Meaning they aren't a permanent solution, and one day you may find they aren't much of a solution at all. It also turns out, there are always other solutions. Your urologist is just too lazy, doesn't believe your problems are as bad as they are, or just doesn't care about you. So it's time to find another urologist.

At least, that's been my experience. You didn't mention your problem, but I had a neurological blockage (nerves got fried or crossed or something). I went through a dozen urologist, and one of them also said I should just permanantly use catheters. So I did, for about 7 months (with a new catheter every month). Even had me change them out at home. Right up until I developed a super sensitive urethra and the pain got to be too much.

Ultimately I found a really good urologist at the Mayo Clinic. He wanted to do a stoma (diversion to a new pee hole), but I convinced him to do a series of sphincterotomies to make me functionally incontinent. That's a story in itself, but needless to say I'm now stable.

As for dealing with the catheters. Lubricate it constantly. Preferably with a non water based lube, as water based will be quickly absorbed by the body. Leading to a dry catheter that will pinch and pull on your member every time it changes size. I found old fashioned petroleum jelly worked best. And in a pinch, lip balm did too.