Slight variation on an old topic. I joked in another message that I should title this something like "Diapers, Enemas, Catheters, and Cruise Ships," for reasons described below.
My urologist is indicating that I may need to go with intermittent catheterization due to urinary retention. The diagnosis is not final as I am scheduled for the urodynamics testing. There are some special considerations, described below.
You may find it interesting that one consideration is my desire to work on my "bucket list." I'm not getting any younger, and like to travel. Because of my bowel incontinence and diapers, I have to take my enema equipment and a sizable diaper supply. I always am at risk of overextending and going to "a bridge too far." My wife and I would like to go on another two lengthy cruises before I have to pack it in due to age and health. However, the diaper supply for a 25-day trip is daunting, to say the least.
When I asked whether my urologist would consider prescribing me a condom catheter for night use, particularly during travel, he asked whether I had considered intermittent catheterization. I really hadn't, but it makes sense if it would let me get through the night without leaking. It seems do-able as, although I am bowel incontinent, I normally do not have bowel movements at night. I still could wear a cloth diaper as a backup, but hopefully not wake up to find it wet. During mornings at sea I might be able to cath and just wear a pull-up and plastic pants on the ship (saving another diaper). Am I hoping for too much?
Of course, at this stage I am not sure what is covered by insurance but I think intermittent caths are covered by Medicare when there is a statement of need from a physician. I think the same also may be true for condom caths.
A quick Google search indicated that the following intermittent cath brands seem to be popular:
GeeWhiz catheters
Coloplast Speedicath catheters
Men’s Liberty
In the U.S., does you physician prescribe the brand or do you select that?
Where do you start?
What should I look out for or avoid.
Normally I would approach this in my usual manner - slowly, and with a lot of research. However, we will be approaching the point where we have to put a deposit on the cruise. Due to my preventive enemas it is easier if I can get a cabin with a bath tub and take the enemas in the tub - just in case.
A related topic is using an external catheter. That could be used in lieu of the intermittent catheterization or aboard ship to reduce diaper use.
I don't know whether to start that as a separate topic or not. Schoppy, wheels, guys, what do you think?
--John