Stricture

A stricture is when the urethra becomes narrowed because of damage to the wall. A stricture can occur when a catheter rubs against the urethral wall and causes damage. It can also happen if you don’t use enough lubricant when inserting catheters.

Signs and symptoms of a stricture

You may have a urethral stricture if you have:

• Difficulty passing a catheter
• Increased pain
• Bleeding.

Management options

The best way to manage a urethral stricture is to make sure they don’t happen in the first place:

• Use plenty of lubrication when inserting catheters or use a self-lubricating (hydrophilic) catheter if possible
• Use the smallest catheter that provides good drainage
• If you use a long-term catheter, make sure it is properly attached to your leg so it doesn’t pull.

Sometimes a stricture will need surgery to fix

This procedure is called a urethral dilatation.

It is common for strictures to reoccur. If you feel that this is happening, it’s likely that surgery will need to be repeated. Get in contact with your GP or spinal urology nurse to get the ball rolling.