I’m asking because things are getting more difficult. I’ve done ISC for around 10 years, maybe a bit less. I’m not walking anymore so have been a full time wheelchair user since February. I’m supposed to transfer using a rotastand so this presents difficulties if we go out. My husband comes in to the loo with me but we’re having difficulty keeping me upright so he can pull my trousers up. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before I fall when doing this or when transferring from chair to loo.
I’m seeing my urologist in October for a minor procedure but was thinking of asking him then if it was something he’d consider doing at some point. I know many of you have them but I don’t know if it’s done for convenience rather than necessity.
Thanks,
Sarah
Hello there. When my neurologist heard how my getting on/off the loo has now become quite the Circus performance, trying to get to standing to sitting from chair to toilet, she suggested a catheter. I refused and was told to just think about the option.
By the following day, a disturbed night’s sleep, three changes of clothes and body wash, my mind was made up! I’m now awaiting a referral to the urologists and I can’t wait.
Put forward your concerns and get the ball rolling 
Hello. Like you my ability to transfer became difficult. My MS nurse told me that the most comfortable and easy to empty, as you can stay sitting. I waited for over a year for this procedure. It is really good, I am so pleased with it. All is well
Cashew
Hi Sarah
It was my urologist who suggested I have a SPC fitted, though I had been thinking about it. It was because I regularly got infections. I’m glad I did it, it’s made things so much easier - no more faffing around with self catheterising. I’d definitely speak to your urologist about it.
Dan
Hi Sarah have had my catheter for over two years now and it’s proved to be a godsend in my case, No more accidents while I try and hang on until help arrives and so far no UTIs. I just wish I had one much earlier.
Go for it Sarah, I’m sure you won’t regret it.
Best wishes
Essie x
Hello Sarah
When you say:
the two things are both true. It’s safety plus more convenient. So by all means ask your urologist. I’m sure that they’ll be more than happy to give you an SPC.
One thing you could keep in your mind though is that an SPC is completely and easily reversed. I had one a few years back. I really didn’t like it. I was plagued by UTIs and a wound infection. So after 6 months, I asked my urologist to remove it, which she did then and there.
Actually I was more capable of pulling my own pants and trousers then than I am now, but I still don’t want one. Eventually my mobility problems will probably mean I have to have an SPC - safety will mean it’s inevitable.
Sue
Thanks for your comments, they’ve all been really helpful. I’ve just phoned the secretary and asked her how we move forward. She’s going to send the urologist an email and we’ll see what he says. She did say there’s about 50 people in front of me and they only do 6 a month so it’s not going to happen immediately.
Thanks again,
Sarah
H, I’ve had a suprapubic catheter for 10 years. I have botox into bladder due to bypassing…uuoh…just bypassing right now…oh eckythump! See it ain’t 100%.
Still it is better than the alternative!
Boudsx
Well, I thought it wasn’t going to happen immediately, the secretary had suggested it was going to be a year. I was told yesterday that they’re going to try and do it in November! Over the moon but a bit scared as well!
Sarah