Are intermittent catheters reusable?

No, intermittent catheters are not considered reusable medical devices, per the FDA. In fact, reusing catheters may increase the risk of UTIs (urinary tract infections).

More helpful info about whether or not catheters are reusable:

• Research indicates that reusing catheters may lead to health problems like UTIs or bladder infections, which may require a trip to your doctor’s office or even a trip to the emergency room.
• Catheters are labeled as single-use devices (SUDs) for a reason. Look for the symbol of a “2” with a line through it on the package, which means do not use more than once.
• Although reusing catheters may seem like a way to reduce plastic waste, it’s important to prioritize your health and follow safe practices with intermittent catheterization.

 

 

Please note: This content isn’t medical advice. It’s meant to give you a basic understanding of health topics. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice or if you have questions. Don’t rely solely on information from this site. Seek guidance from your doctor.