Using an intermittent catheter will not deteriorate your condition or cause you to need a permanent, or indwelling catheter. In fact, it can help keep your bladder healthy, preventing stretching or further damage and is often an alternative to a permanent fixture.
It is important to know, that if you do not self-catheterize per the guidance from your doctor, you may find that you start to leak urine when your bladder becomes too full. Whether you're self-cathing forever or only for a certain amount of time, choosing not to self-catheterize means you're leaving urine in your bladder for a long period of time, which can lead to a distended bladder or a urinary tract infection.
Learn more about the effects of not using an intermittent catheter when prescribed.
