Posted by Loz on 14/5/2008, 10:56 am, in reply to "given myself a deadline..."

Well, I had my appointment this morning to learn to self cath. Unlike my visit to the consultant, I wasn't nervous at all. I knew that I was doing this because it was going to help me and I went in with the mindset that I was going to get what I wanted. The nurse was fantastic, really understanding and explained that she'd seen various degrees of the condition more often that I expected - she said often she has met women who have problems peeing on aeroplanes because of a problem with cystitis that can occur, so that was interesting to know (not that this could be my problem as this isn't the only time I suffer). I'd read before that people were shown on a model and then sent away with caths so I was surprised when the nurse actually showed me what to do myself with a mirror, but I just went with it and was successful first try! She was actually really surprised at how easy I'd found it (not implying that it's difficult). She said it was likely to be because I was so relaxed - often women are tense and panic if they struggle. So the best advice I can give to women using caths for the first time is don't panic! Take your time and you'll be fine - it's not impossible! Also, something else I could advise is to know your anatomy. Have a look with a mirror - weird as this may sound, if you know what you're looking for before your first appointment it will make things easier. I know this isn't the answer to everything and I would be very interested in attending a London workshop next time one is held. But, for now, I'm happy! Loz

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