Inserting either type of catheter can be uncomfortable, so anaesthetic gel may be used on the area to reduce any pain. You may also experience some discomfort while the catheter is in place, but most people with a long-term catheter get used to this over time.

How painful is a Foley catheter?

- Not many patients said the catheter hurt going in, although most patients were having an operation and were not awake when the catheter was placed. But 31 percent of those whose catheter had already been removed at the time of the first interview said it hurt or caused bleeding coming out.

What does it feel like to have a catheter put in?

rectum vagina urethra where catheter goes in Page 2 What does a catheter feel like? At first, you may feel like you have to urinate. You may have a burning feeling around your urethra. Sometimes you may feel a sudden pain and have the need to urinate.