What Is a Foley Catheter? And Why Someone Might Need One

If you've ever heard the term Foley catheter and wondered what it means, you're not alone. It might sound clinical or complicated, but don’t worry—it's a lot simpler (and more common) than you think.

Let’s break it down together.

First Things First: What Is a Foley Catheter?

A Foley catheter is a thin, flexible tube that’s inserted into the bladder to help drain urine. It’s often used when someone can’t pee on their own—for medical reasons, surgery, or certain health conditions.

There are several types of catheters besides the Foley catheter. Each is chosen based on the patient’s specific medical needs.

What makes Foley catheter different from other types of catheters? It stays in place. It has a small balloon at the tip that’s filled with sterile water once it's in the bladder. This balloon keeps the catheter from slipping out.

That’s why Foley catheters are also called indwelling catheters—they “dwell” in the bladder for hours, days, or even longer if needed.

Why Would Someone Need One?

There are several reasons a doctor might recommend a Foley catheter, including:

• After surgery – Especially surgery on the prostate, bladder, or reproductive organs

• Urinary retention – When you’re unable to empty your bladder naturally

• Severe incontinence – In people who can’t control when they urinate

• Monitoring urine output – In critically ill patients in hospitals

• During labor or childbirth – In some cases, to keep the bladder empty

It’s a helpful medical tool that ensures the bladder doesn’t become overly full, which can cause discomfort or even damage.

What’s It Like to Have a Foley Catheter?

Let’s be real—having a catheter might not sound fun, but for many people, it brings relief and comfort. You might feel pressure when it’s inserted, but most people say it’s more strange than painful.

Once in place, the catheter is usually taped to the thigh or secured to your leg to prevent pulling. The urine flows through the tube into a small drainage bag. These bags can either be:

• Leg bags – Smaller and worn under clothing during the day

• Night bags – Larger and used while sleeping

How Long Does It Stay In?

It depends on why it was placed. Some people only need a Foley catheter for a few hours after surgery. Others may need it for a few days, weeks, or even long-term if they have a chronic condition.

Doctors and nurses regularly monitor the catheter and may change it every few weeks to reduce the risk of infection.

Are There Risks?

Yes. Like any medical device, Foley catheters have some risks. The most common issue is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Other potential risks include:

• Bladder spasms

• Leaking around the catheter

• Blood in the urine

• Blockage of the catheter

• Discomfort or irritation

That’s why hygiene and proper care are so important—especially for long-term users.

Tips for Caring for a Foley Catheter

If you or someone you love needs a Foley catheter at home, here are some simple tips:

• Clean around the catheter daily using soap and water

• Wash your hands before and after touching the catheter or drainage bag

• Keep the drainage bag below the level of your bladder (to prevent backflow)

• Don’t tug or twist the tube

• Empty the bag regularly, especially when it's about half full

And of course, contact your healthcare provider if you notice signs of infection—like fever, cloudy urine, foul odor, or pain.

Final Thoughts

A Foley catheter is nothing to fear. It’s a tool that helps many people stay healthy and comfortable when their bodies need a little extra support. Whether it's for a short period after surgery or for ongoing care, it plays an important role in managing urinary health.

Still have questions about Foley catheters? Talk to your doctor or nurse. They’ll walk you through exactly what to expect—and how to care for it safely.

Sources:
1. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003981.htm
2. National Health Service (NHS), UK
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-catheters/
3. Cleveland Clinic
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/catheter my.clevelandclinic.org+7my.clevelandclinic.org+7my.clevelandclinic.org+7
4. American Urological Association (AUA).
https://www.auanet.org/meetings-and-education/for-medical-students/medical-students-curriculum/bladder-drainage
5. Stanford Health Care
https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/urology/urinary-retention/treatments/foley-catheter.html