It is always advisable that alternatives to a catheter should be considered based on the patient’s individual care needs. Why? This is because there are some cases where an indwelling urinary catheter is the only solution while in other cases some alternative solutions can work perfectly well for the patient. However, alternative methods provide a much lower risk of infectious complications, such as urinary tract infection. Additionally, these alternative methods can reduce or eliminate the non-infectious complications such as discomfort and immobility that are associated with indwelling urethral catheters

The most common alternatives to a catheter are; intermittent, programed toileting, absorbent pads, incontinence panties and briefs, disposable underwear, protective underpads, plastic panties. All these alternatives serve the same purpose but it depends on how severe the problem is. Some are for mild cases while others are for extreme cases.

Besides these alternatives to a catheter, there also exists a male urinary drainage system (MDU) specifically designed to be utilized at each urination episode for a bladder trained male with all the non-invasion features of a catheter. It is only recommended for those that are bladder trained to urinate on command. It is easy to use, reduces the spilling of urine, increases cleanliness and hygiene, decreases the risk of infection, increases mobility and last but not least improves confidence and self-esteem.