Why Female-Specific Catheter Length and Sizing

Female urethras are significantly shorter than male urethras—typically 1.5-2 inches compared to 7-8 inches for males. Standard-length catheters (16 inches) designed for male anatomy are unnecessarily long for women, creating awkward handling, excess tubing to manage, and increased risk of contamination from touching non-sterile surfaces. The 6-inch female-specific length provides exactly what's needed: enough length to comfortably hold and control the catheter during insertion while keeping the design compact, discreet, and easy to handle. The 12 French diameter strikes the ideal balance for female catheterization—small enough for comfortable passage through the shorter urethra while maintaining adequate drainage flow. For women requiring intermittent catheterization, female-specific sizing transforms an uncomfortable, awkward procedure into a manageable, discreet routine.

Key Features

• 6-inch (15 cm) length: designed specifically for female urethral anatomy
• 12 French (12 Fr) diameter: appropriate size for comfortable female catheterization
• Straight tip design: smooth insertion for straightforward female anatomy
• Polished drainage eyelets: minimize friction and urethral irritation
• Color-coded funnel: white indicator for 12 Fr size identification
• Universal funnel end: easy to hold and control during drainage
• Medical-grade PVC: flexible yet maintains shape for easy insertion
• Latex-free construction: safe for latex-sensitive users
• DEHP-free materials: free of phthalates for enhanced safety
• Individually sterile packaging: ready to use, single-use format
• Box of 30: monthly supply for typical 4-6x daily catheterization

Benefits

• Compact length simplifies handling and reduces contamination risk
• Appropriate sizing ensures comfort during insertion and drainage
• Smooth eyelets minimize urethral trauma with repeated use
• Discreet size ideal for carrying in purse, pocket, or travel bag
• Single-use sterile design eliminates cleaning and reprocessing
• Cost-effective bulk packaging reduces monthly supply costs
• Easy-to-hold funnel provides secure grip during procedure

Clinical Applications

✓ Neurogenic bladder: reliable emptying for spinal cord injury or MS patients
✓ Urinary retention: relief for incomplete bladder emptying
✓ Post-surgical catheterization: gentle drainage during recovery periods
✓ Bladder management programs: scheduled intermittent catheterization
✓ Female-specific anatomy: designed for shorter urethral length
✓ Self-catheterization: appropriate for independent use by female patients
✓ Caregiver-assisted catheterization: simplified handling for caregivers
✓ Active lifestyles: compact size for catheterization at work, school, or travel

Usage & Application

For women requiring intermittent urinary catheterization as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Suitable for self-catheterization or caregiver-assisted use.

To use:

1. Prepare supplies: Gather catheter, water-soluble lubricant (if needed), clean towel or wipes, and toilet or collection container
2. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
3. Position yourself comfortably: Sitting on toilet with knees apart, or standing with one foot elevated on toilet seat (choose position that works best for you)
4. Open catheter package carefully without touching the catheter shaft
5. Lubricate if needed: Apply water-soluble lubricant to catheter tip (some users find natural body moisture sufficient)
6. Locate urethral opening: Use one hand to gently separate labia to expose urethral meatus (opening above vaginal opening, below clitoris)
7. Hold catheter by funnel end: Keep grip on the funnel—do not touch catheter shaft to maintain sterility
8. Insert catheter gently: Guide catheter tip into urethral opening using gentle, steady pressure
9. Advance until urine flows: Insert approximately 2-3 inches or until urine begins draining (typically less depth needed due to short female urethra)
10. Allow complete drainage: Hold catheter steady and let bladder empty fully into toilet or container
11. Monitor flow: If flow stops before bladder feels empty, gently advance catheter slightly further
12. Withdraw slowly: Once drainage stops, slowly and gently remove catheter
13. Dispose properly: Place used catheter in waste receptacle—never attempt to clean or reuse
14. Wash hands again after procedure

Frequency: Catheterize as often as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically 4-6 times daily or as needed to maintain bladder health and prevent overdistension.

Finding the urethral opening: Many women find it helpful to use a mirror initially to visualize anatomy. With practice, catheterization becomes easier and can be done by touch alone.

Lubricant use: Some women prefer using water-soluble lubricant for added comfort, while others find their natural moisture sufficient. Experiment to find what works best for you.

If you experience difficulty:

• Cannot locate urethral opening → Use a mirror or consult with healthcare provider for guidance
• Resistance during insertion → Do not force—withdraw and try again with fresh catheter
• No urine flow → Advance catheter slightly further or try relaxing pelvic muscles
• Pain or bleeding → Stop immediately and contact healthcare provider

Important: Single use only. Never attempt to clean, sterilize, or reuse intermittent catheters. Each catheterization requires a fresh, sterile catheter.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Intermittent urinary catheter, female
• Size: 12 French (12 Fr)
• Length: 6 inches (15 cm)
• Tip design: Straight tip
• Eyelets: Polished, smooth drainage eyes (typically 2 opposing eyes)
• Funnel: Universal connector, color-coded white for 12 Fr identification
• Material: Medical-grade PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
• Latex status: Not made with natural rubber latex
• DEHP status: DEHP-free (phthalate-free)
• Coating: Uncoated (use with water-soluble lubricant if desired)
• Sterility: Individually packaged, sterile (ETO or radiation sterilization)
• Packaging: 30 catheters per box
• Brand: Coloplast
• Intended use: Intermittent catheterization only—not for indwelling use
• Gender-specific design: Female anatomy (short urethral length)
• Disposal: Single-patient use; dispose after each catheterization