Urinary incontinence is the unintentional passage of urine due to several reasons. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 15% to 30% of people in the United States aged 60 or above experience incontinence issues. This results in reduced patient comfort subsequently leading to lower confidence while doing day-to-day activities. To manage the problem, using a condom catheter is recommended. Currently, different condom catheter sizes are available for the patients to choose from.
Condom catheters are soft and flexible external use devices
In this article, let us go through the condom catheter sizes available in the market. In addition, we will also learn how to choose the best size for yourself or your patient.
What are Condom Catheters?
Condom catheters are the externally used devices that are employed for the management of urinary incontinence. These are shaped like a condom and are worn over the copulatory organ or penis. Because of are easy to slide, these can be donned and doffed by the patient himself. As these devices are less invasive, they are highly comfortable products.
Condom Catheter Sizes: What are the Options?
When it comes to condom catheter sizes, the following options are available:
- 23 mm
- 28 mm
- 31 mm
- 35 mm
- 40 mm
Silicone-based condom catheters are easy to don and doff
How to Measure the Right Condom Catheter Size?
While choosing the correct condom catheter sizes, the following steps should be kept in mind:
Measure the Flaccid Penis
The first thing you need to do is to measure the size of the penis in its flaccid state. For this purpose, cut out the measuring tape and place it around the copulatory organ. Make sure that it is behind the head. Check the circumference of the penis. This will give you a number which can then be matched with the following table:
| Tape Measurements in Centimeters (cm) | Condom Catheter Sizes |
| 7.5 cm tape measurement | 23 mm |
| 8.8 cm tape measurement | 28 mm |
| 9.7 cm tape measurement | 31 mm |
| 11 cm tape measurement | 35 mm |
| 12.5 cm tape measurement | 40 mm |
The following picture shows penis circumference based on the tape measurement for the selection of the right condom catheter sizes:
Apply Formula to Get Your Size
To be surer, once the circumference of the penis has been checked, use the following formula to find out your condom catheter sizes:
Condom Catheter Size = Circumference of the penis (cm) / 3.14
Example
Let’s take an example. Suppose the circumference comes out to be 12 cm. Now, by putting this value into the formula, we get:
Condom Catheter Size = 12 cm / 3.14 = 3.8 cm
By converting centimeter (cm) into millimeter (mm), we get
3.8 cm x 10 = 38 mm
Now, 38 mm is your suitable condom catheter size.
A condom catheter with an attached drainage bag
Condom Catheter Sizes: Frequently Asked Questions
The following section covers some of the FAQs regarding condom catheter sizes:
1. What if my catheter size is not on the chart?
If, by following the given method, you get a value that is not given in the table, it is recommended to get a size close to your obtained value. Getting the smaller one is better as condom catheters are made up of silicone which is a flexible material and can be stretched a bit to don on. Moreover, it is strong enough to control urine leakages as well.
2. How do I know if my condom catheter size is not suitable?
In case of an unsuitable catheter size, you might experience the following problems:
- Your catheter might leak due to improper fitting.
- The catheter can fall off on its own.
In this case, check your size once again and get a new catheter.
3. How often should I change my condom catheter?
A condom catheter should be changed daily as it is a single-use item. You should also change the catheter in case of leakage or skin irritation.
4. What if I cannot measure my catheter size?
If you are having difficulty measuring your catheter size, it is best to ask for help from a caregiver or visit a healthcare provider/trained professional.
5. How do I avoid skin irritation while using a condom catheter?
- Wash your hands while handling a condom catheter.
- Choose the correct catheter size.
- Clean the penis before applying the catheter.
- Use a suitable adhesive to fix the catheter in place.
- Make sure that the drainage bag is properly connected.
- Check the skin area to look for any signs of irritation.
- Empty the drainage bag as soon as it is full.
- Change the condom catheter regularly.
- Use a barrier cream to keep the skin protected from possible irritation. Consult your healthcare provider to get a prescription.
Suitable condom catheter sizes are necessary for the patient’s comfort
Condom Catheters at Health Supply 770: Features and Specifications
Condom catheters are the devices employed for the collection of urine leakages in patients dealing with incontinence issues. These are reliable systems that are easy to use and can be donned on without the help of healthcare experts.
While learning about condom catheter sizes, it is also important to become familiar with some of the best products available in the US market. Some of these reliable condom catheter brands are also available at Health Supply 770 and have been detailed below along with their features and purchase links:
6530 Coloplast Freedom Clear Advantage Self Adhering Male External Catheter with Aloe and Kink Resistant Nozzle 40mm Diameter Extra Large Latex Free Transparent
6530 Coloplast Freedom Clear Advantage Self Adhering Male External Catheter with Aloe and Kink Resistant Nozzle 40mm Diameter Extra Large Latex Free Transparent
US$97.88
Product Details
6530 Coloplast Freedom clear advantage self-adhering male external catheter is one of the best systems employed for the management of incontinence issues among male patients. These catheters are worn over the copulatory organ or penis. A tube connects the catheter to a drainage bag which collects the leaked urine.
The design of these systems is sheath-like which allows easy donning and doffing after a single use. Moreover, the system also carries an adhesive strip that secures the catheter thus reducing any extra straps and tapes. In addition, these 6530 Coloplast Freedom clear advantage self-adhering male external catheters have also been coated with aloe vera to further ease wearing.
Furthermore, these 6530 Coloplast Freedom clear advantage self-adhering male external catheters are also free from latex, a common irritant found in low-quality products. This way, the product is also suitable for people with sensitive skin types. As for these condom catheter sizes, their diameter is around 40 mm which classifies as being extra-large.
Additionally, these 6530 Coloplast Freedom clear advantage self-adhering male external catheters also lower the risk of blockages and kinks, a feature which keeps the urine flow smooth and interruption-free.
Bard # 938383 Male External Catheter Spirit™3 Self-Adhesive Seal Hydrocolloid Silicone Small
Bard # 938383 Male External Catheter Spirit™3 Self-Adhesive Seal Hydrocolloid Silicone Small
US$195.88
Product Details
Bard # 938383 Spirit™3 self-adhesive seal hydrocolloid-based male external catheter is another non-irritant product for the management of urinary incontinence. Among multiple condom catheter sizes available in the market, this product has a diameter of 25 mm. Its hydrocolloid silicone-based construction keeps it strong yet flexible.
Moreover, these Bard # 938383 Spirit™3 self-adhesive seal hydrocolloid-based male external catheters are single-use products that are to be discarded after a single employment. In addition, these are also non-sterile.
Bard # 938385 Male External Catheter Spirit™3 Self-Adhesive Seal Hydrocolloid Silicone Medium
Bard # 938385 Male External Catheter Spirit™3 Self-Adhesive Seal Hydrocolloid Silicone Medium
US$181.88
Product Details
Bard # 938385 Spirit™3 self-adhesive seal hydrocolloid-based male external catheters are constructed using hydrocolloid silicone material which is known for its flexibility as well as non-slip nature. The product is non-irritant and, therefore, suitable for people with sensitive skin types.
As for their diameter, these Bard # 938385 Spirit™3 self-adhesive seal hydrocolloid-based male external catheters have a 29 mm size which is considered medium among other condom catheter sizes. These are also non-sterile and disposable so can only be used once.
Bard # 961149 Male External Catheter Spirit™2 Self-Adhesive Band Hydrocolloid Silicone Medium
Bard # 961149 Male External Catheter Spirit™2 Self-Adhesive Band Hydrocolloid Silicone Medium
US$163.88
Product Details
Bard # 961149 Spirit™2 male external catheters are self-adhesive bands and are non-sterile products that provide a snug fit around the copulatory organ when worn for the management of urinary incontinence. These are easy-to-wear items that are constructed using hydrocolloid silicone.
Moreover, the diameter of these Bard # 961149 Spirit™2 male external catheters is 29 mm. Among different condom catheter sizes, these are somewhat medium-sized products. In addition, these are single-use items that are to be disposed of after one use and do not require cleaning and maintenance.
Bard # 938378 Male External Catheter Spirit™1 Self-Adhesive Seal Hydrocolloid Silicone Small
Bard # 938378 Male External Catheter Spirit™1 Self-Adhesive Seal Hydrocolloid Silicone Small
US$152.88
Product Details
Bard # 938378 Spirit™1 male external catheters are self-adhesive seals a product that is employed for managing urine leakages in patients dealing with incontinence issues. These external catheters are easy to employ and remain fitted in place for longer without posing issues like slipping and falling.
Moreover, these Bard # 938378 Spirit™1 male external catheters come in a medium size as compared to other condom catheter sizes as they have a diameter of 25 mm. Because of are single-use items, there is no need for the patient or the caregiver to wash and clean these catheters after use thus reducing the unease.
Furthermore, these Bard # 938378 Spirit™1 male external catheters have hydrocolloid silicone as their construction material which is known for being comfortable due to its flexibility but sturdy enough to remain unaffected by movement.
Bard # 1158749 Female External Catheter PUREWICK® 10 L X1.5 W Inch
Bard # 1158749 Female External Catheter PUREWICK® 10 L X1.5 W Inch
US$630.88
Product Details
Bard # 1158749 PUREWICK® female external catheter is a product that is non-sterile and can only be employed once. As for their sizes, a variety exists among these products just like the one in condom catheter sizes. These items are about 10 inches long with a width of 1.5 inches. Their unique design allows the patient to remain dry while wearing the catheter as constant exposure to moisture renders the genitalia prone to infections as well as irritation.
The system also has a low-pressure suction technology which applies a pulling force on the urine. This way, the urine gets collected into the drainage bag within no time. Moreover, to keep the catheter in place, the material of the device provides a stronger grip.
Due to their ease of usage, these Bard # 1158749 PUREWICK® female external catheters are often employed in hospitals as well as rehab facilities where the females often go through incontinence issues.
*Note: The prices mentioned in the article are taken from the Health Supply 770 website. These may vary over time.
Silicone-based condom catheters are flexible and highly comfortable
The condom catheters mentioned in this article, along with many other medical supplies, can be purchased from Health Supply 770, a reliable name when it comes to medical products. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide your products to you in the shortest possible time. Click the link at the end of the article to check the wide range of condom catheter sizes.
Conclusion
Condom catheters are necessary items employed for managing incontinence issues among male subjects. These are easy to wear and do not need any special training or the services of a healthcare provider. Therefore, these offer a convenient option for those in need.
Several condom catheter sizes are available in the market to choose from. The patient just has to measure the circumference of the copulatory organ and apply the given formula. The obtained value is then matched with the table to find out the suitable size.
As condom catheters are necessary items in healthcare facilities as well as in home settings, these should be bought and stored for future use. For purchasing different condom catheter sizes, reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 should be approached. They ensure the provision of quality products along with satisfactory services.
References
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00039261.htm
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PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
