Barry, the catheters I use are licensed to be in situ for up to 12 weeks. The first suprapubic catheter had a temporary stitch to hold it in place for a few days. My first SPC was changed at the urology department of my hospital. The first SPC had a microbial coating. At the start of having the catheter I could go 12 weeks between changes. I now have my catheter changed every 8 weeks and I know at the end of 7 weeks I am ready for a change.
The district nurse changes mine at a catheter clinic in a district health centre. My bladder is very small so I prefer not to do it myself. Some changes are absolutely pain free some can be uncomfortable. I take a couple of painkillers before the appointment and drink plenty of water. Removing the catheter is the worst part if it gets stuck,the nurse pulling the catheter doesn't feel that pain, if you were pulling it out yourself you might keep stopping.
Remember you only have short period of time to get a SPC back in before the hole starts to heal, the time given seems to vary from 30 minutes to an hour. My urologist said never have a SPC routinely changed on a Friday afternoon.
My district nurses would change my catheter at home but I prefer the clinical environment. It is probably easier for the DN to do the change on a treatment table rather than a low bed, Grantia ?
Thanks Chris