Hello, my name is Karen and I was diagnosed with RRMS 25 years ago (can’t quite believe that!!!) and SPMS 7 years ago which, after numerous falls, has resulted in me now having to use a walking stick when out and about. On the whole, I feel fortunate and know that my symptoms could be a whole lot worse. Last year I was diagnosed with bladder cancer for which I am receiving treatment but I have recently been told that I must now learn to self catheterise. I am having real problems in carrying this out, with the main issue being difficulty in visualising/finding my urethra. Out of 8 attempts so far, only 2 have been successful and I’m getting so frustrated and stressed about it all. I would appreciate any hints or tips from people who had similar issues when learning to SC. Thank you in advance.
Hi
It’s not so easy for us females but I find it helps if I use a mirror, actually I can’t find it without asking my hands are numb.
I’m sorry if you are already doing this with a mirror just hoping it may help.
Otherwise go back to the nurse to see if she has any pearls of wisdom.
Pam x
I was diagnosed in December and after 2 further relapses they’ve diagnosed very active rrms. Since December I’ve had issues with urine retention and infections. I’ve just been taught self catheterisation and I’ve found it easier to feel for the ureathra rather then use a mirror. Using this method I’ve been able to ISC twice daily which has made such a difference. You need to familiarise yourself with your anatomy it will make the process a lot easier. Hope this helps you x
Unfortunately I know catheters too well . Going from someone who had no history of utis and urge incontinence - I had to get a catheter in every week whilst at university. Now an urology nurse visits my house to administer medication into my bladder via catheter. This is once per month. She advised me to give self catheterisation a go considering the retention I have even with urge incontinence. Personally I can’t do it myself due to balance. Wouldn’t matter if I had a torch on a mirror either . Still wouldn’t do it properly lol
Best advice is keep trying and if it doesn’t work, ask someone for support. 
good luck!
Thank you so much. Can I ask how long it took you to become proficient at sc? I know it’s just been a few attempts for me but I’m becoming disheartened that I’m not managing it successfully each time I try xx
Thanks Pam. I can’t believe I’m finding this so difficult!! I have actually tried with a mirror. My nurse is phoning me in a few days so I’ll ask her advice again. I know it’s stupid but I’d rather figure this out myself rather than having her having to physically teach me xx
I’ve only been doing ISC just over a week now. I’ve tried with a mirror but ended up going into the vagina and not the urethra , so found feeling for it easier. Look as some pictures first so you know where to go, I do it sitting in the toilet as my balance is rubbish since my last flare up. Have you tried different catheters? Has your catheter lubricants on it to make it easier? Hope you manage ok? Phone urology as they should be able to assist you. I had a review after a week to make sure everything was ok? X