Catheter Types For Men

In the United States, approximately 300,800 people use intermittent catheters, while about 5 million patients receive indwelling catheters annually. 

Fortunately, men who need to use urinary catheters have options. 

Guide To Common Types Of Male Catheters

This guide details the use cases for intermittent and external male urinary catheters. It explores the effects of different materials, designs, and features. 

Intermittent Catheters

Intermittent catheters (ICs) are only inserted for the duration of urination. 

Each IC is single-use, and it must be disposed of after use. Most men managing urinary conditions insert ICs 4-6 times per day. 

ICs differ by sex, as they are inserted in the urethra and pushed along its length, ultimately touching—but not coiling inside of—the bladder. Male intermittent catheters are typically longer than female ICs, to account for longer urethras. 

Different ICs vary by tip style and by whether it’s part of a closed system or not. 

Straight Tip Vs. Coudé Tip

A straight tip IC is designed with a thin, flexible-yet-unbent tube with a round head, which leads insertion. The straight tip of a model like the LoFric Origo Male 16″ Straight Tip Intermittent Catheter is useful when aiming to keep steady while guiding the IC through a straight urethra.

The coude tip design incorporates a curve. This makes it easier to guide the IC through the urethra when you need to navigate around obstructions, like an enlarged prostate. The Luja Coudé Male Intermittent Catheter is a comfortable curved-tip option for men. 

Integrated (All-In-One) Closed-System Catheters

Most intermittent catheters are designed to facilitate voiding into a toilet. In contrast, a closed-system IC is designed to draw urine into a collection bag integrated into the device. The entire system is self-contained, housing a pre-lubricated catheter tube within the collection bag.

All-in-one IC systems reduce the risk of an infection or UTI, are optimized for ease-of-use, and are typically touch-free, improving hygiene. The TruCath Closed System Catheter is one popular option for men. 

External Catheters

External catheters are sometimes called “external collection devices,” or ECDs. They’re used to collect urine and manage urinary incontinence in a less invasive way. Male external catheters cover (enclose) the entire penis, attaching and securing around the organ’s base, rather than fitting inside the urethra. 

Men using ECDs face a significantly lower risk of bacteriuria and symptomatic UTIs than those using intermittent catheters. For many, they’re a cleaner, more comfortable incontinence management alternative to underwear.

External catheters differ by their designs and by whether they’re self-adhering or not. 

Shape (Design)

All external catheters enclose the user’s external genitalia. Yet, different designs take different approaches to coverage, and they offer distinct benefits. Two designs are common. 

Condom / Sheath

The condom- or sheath-style ECD typically offers a breathable, skin-like fit, much like a condom. These male external catheters roll on over the tip of the penis, and they include a tapered segment at the tip to direct urine appropriately. 

Easy-on models, like the Freedom Clear LS (Long Seal) Male External Catheter, are popular. Extended-wear variants like TruCath Male External Catheter with Extended Adhesive can be worn for up to 48 hours.

Texas-Style (3-Part Design) 

Texas-style ECDs combine a thin, breathable, condom-like sheath with a more durable drainage tube and plastic attachment inset. This maintains comfort while strengthening the resilience of the tube and containment bag, reducing the risk of accidental tears and spills. 

The Uro-Con Texas Style Male External Catheter is one of the most reputable 3-part-style models. 

Self-Adhering Vs. Non-Adhering

Self-adhering external caths can be used out of the box, without additional securing pieces. The Conveen Optima Male External Catheter is one of the most popular self-adhering ECDs. Its unique, anti-leak design combines:

• A push-ring fitting, designed to create a water-tight, sweat-proof attachment
• Heavy-duty, skin-safe adhesive, built right into its surface 
• A shape with “sure grip” ribs, for easy application and snug fit

Non-adhering ECDs must be attached with a non-integrated skin-safe adhesive, or a separate piece like a securement strap. Models like the Dover Texas Style Male External Catheter include the strap piece and the ECD in a single package. 

Explore Our Selection of Different Types of Catheters For Men

Medical Monks offers a wide selection of male catheters. Shop now.