Most people can be taught self-intermittent catheterisation without a lot of problems. Children, as young as 5, have learnt to do self-catheterisation. The benefits are tremendous. The incontinent person who does self-catheterisation can take care of himself with a greater degree of independence. With children, the ability to self-catheterise opens up their social lives to include camping trips and other overnight activities. The responsibility for children’s personal care belongs with them, and self clean intermittent catheterisation allows for, and even encourages, self-reliance.

The equipment is easy to obtain and relatively inexpensive. An appropriate size catheter (prescribed by the physician or nurse), some water-soluble lubricant, and a motivated person are the essentials. Since the procedure is "clean" and not "sterile", soap and water are only cleansing agents needed. Girls sometimes find a mirror to be helpful when first learning self-catheterisation. This helps them to see the urinary opening where the catheter is inserted.

The equipment should be gathered together in one spot. Hands are washed well with soap and water and a clean catheter should be ready and nearby. The individual now positions himself comfortably, so that the urinary opening can be seen. (This is obviously much easier for males. Females may have to use mirror. Even then it may be difficult to see the urinary opening in women, so she should not be discouraged if success is not obtained on the first try).

Once the urinary opening has been identified, the lubricated tip of the catheter is placed into the opening and threaded through until urine flows. The catheter is held in place until t he urine stops flowing. Then the catheter is removed and washed with soap and water.

It may take a few trails to become proficient self-catheterisation. The independent and self-esteem gained by being able to do this is well work the effort.