Intermittent Catheters Market

Intermittent Catheters Market Size:

The global intermittent catheters market size reached USD 2.9 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 4.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.72% during 2025-2033. The market is majorly driven by the expansion of healthcare insurance coverage, increasing number of surgeries requiring catheterization, rising preference for minimally invasive procedures, growing prevalence of neurological disorders, rapid technological advancements in catheter design, and the increasing geriatric population.

Intermittent Catheters Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors. One of the major market drivers is the increasing prevalence of urinary incontinence and other urological disorders, particularly among the aging population. This has led to a rise in the demand for effective and easy-to-use catheterization products. Additionally, technological advancements in catheter design, such as the development of hydrophilic and compact catheters, have enhanced user comfort and reduced the risk of infections, further bolstering market growth.
• Key Market Trends: Key market trends include the growing shift towards home healthcare due to the convenience and cost-effectiveness it offers. The intermittent catheters demand, supported by the increasing awareness and education regarding self-catheterization among patients, has grown due to their ease of use at home. Moreover, the adoption of single-use catheters is gaining traction, driven by the need for infection control and patient safety.
• Geographical Trends: The market shows strong growth in North America due to the increasing prevalence of chronic urinary conditions and a higher adoption rate of home healthcare solutions. Rapid expansion in Asia-Pacific and Europe is also driven by the growing geriatric population, improved healthcare infrastructure, and rising awareness.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the key market players include B. Braun Melsungen AG, Becton Dickinson and Company, Coloplast A/S, Cure Medical LLC (Convatec Group plc), Hollister Incorporated, Hunter Urology, Medical Technologies of Georgia Inc., Pennine Healthcare Ltd., Teleflex Inc, and Wellspect Limited (Dentsply Sirona), among others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Some of the challenges in the market include the high cost associated with intermittent catheters, which can limit their accessibility in lower-income regions. However, opportunities for growth lies in emerging markets where healthcare infrastructure is improving, and the adoption of advanced medical devices is on the rise.

Intermittent Catheters Market Trends:

Increasing prevalence of urological disorders

The rising prevalence of urological illnesses such as urine retention, cystitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, urinary incontinence, and kidney stones, which cause bladder dysfunction, are among the primary causes expected to boost product demand globally. The increasing number of patients suffering from such urinary dysfunctions necessitates catheterization for urine management and drainage, and hence demand for these products is likely to drive market growth. According to the National Health Service (NHS) England, around 61% of men in the general population of UK experience lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) while 34% of UK women experience urinary incontinence. Therefore, the growing incidence of urological dysfunctions and related surgeries has accelerated the demand for intermittent catheters for post-operative convenience. This is anticipated to drive intermittent catheters market growth over the forecast period.

Rising adoption of appropriate reimbursement rules

Urinary retention is more prevalent in individuals with bladder neck obstruction, neurological issues, and posterior urethral stricture. With Medicare and Medicaid covering intermittent catheterization under certain criteria, patients can receive up to 120 catheters per month through Medicaid, and up to 200 through Medicare if they meet the specific conditions. These programs cover a variety of catheter types, including straight, coude, and those with advanced features like hydrophilic and antimicrobial coatings. Additionally, the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have released guidelines for managing urinary incontinence in nursing homes, alongside online training for staff. These approaches are expected to simplify the management of incontinence care. Due to a higher level of understanding and the implementation of suitable payment regulations, it is probable that spending on research and development for innovative and affordable catheters will increase. As a result, the market is expected to grow steadily, as per the intermittent catheters market forecast.

Growing geriatric population

Intermittent catheters are frequently used by older individuals for issues including urine retention, incontinence, pressure sores, and cancer. Healthcare professionals frequently employ these catheters to reduce the demands associated with providing continuous care for elderly patients. Additionally, intermittent catheters remain essential in post-surgical settings where patient mobility is limited. The rise in aging population with rising disease burden across the globe is expected to result in a growing demand for these catheters. Patients suffering from chronic illnesses require catheterization in order to facilitate bladder emptying, thereby driving the growth of the market and creating a positive intermittent catheters market outlook.

Intermittent Catheters Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product, indication, category, and end user.

Breakup by Product:

• Uncoated Intermittent Catheter
• Coated Intermittent Catheter
  • Antimicrobial
  • Hydrophilic
  • Others
     

Uncoated intermittent catheter dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product. This includes uncoated intermittent catheter and coated intermittent catheter (antimicrobial, hydrophilic, and others). According to the report, uncoated intermittent catheter represented the largest segment.

Uncoated intermittent catheters hold the largest market share due to their continued success in enhancing patient comfort and infection control. Manufacturers are consistently leveraging modern materials and innovative designs to make these catheters more user-friendly while minimizing complications. This shift towards uncoated options is reflecting the industry’s growing emphasis on patient-centric solutions, which is propelling market growth. Additionally, healthcare providers are increasingly favoring these catheters for their effectiveness in reducing the risk of infection, thereby contributing to their dominant market position. As a result, uncoated intermittent catheters are maintaining their leadership in the market.

Breakup by Indication:

• Urinary Incontinence
• Surgery (Major Surgery)
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Others
   

Urinary incontinence holds the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the indication have also been provided in the report. This includes urinary incontinence, surgery (major surgery), spinal cord injury, and others. According to the report, urinary incontinence accounted for the largest market share.

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent illness that affects millions of individuals globally. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 423 million adults suffer from incontinence, and this figure is anticipated to rise as the population ages. There is an increasing awareness of urine incontinence and its influence on people's quality of life. As awareness grows, more people seek medical attention and remedies, such as intermittent catheters. The market has seen rapid product innovation, resulting in more user-friendly and comfortable catheters. The growing awareness and diagnosis of urinary incontinence, coupled with advancements in catheter technology, are further driving market growth in this segment. As a result, urinary incontinence remains the dominant indication in the market.

Breakup by Category:

• Male Length Catheter
• Kids Length Catheter
• Female Length Catheter
   

Female length catheter holds the maximum share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the category have also been provided in the report. This includes male length catheter, kids length catheter, and female length catheter. According to the report, female length catheter accounted for the largest market share.

Female length catheters are accounting for the largest market share due to the increasing prevalence of urinary disorders among women, particularly conditions like urinary incontinence and bladder dysfunction. These catheters are tailored to the female anatomy, making them more pleasant to use. Female anatomy usually has a shorter urethra than male anatomy. This shorter length makes female length catheters easier to use since they are designed to reach the bladder with minimal insertion depth, lowering the risk of injury or pain. The rise in the female geriatric population, who are more susceptible to urinary issues, is also contributing to the demand for female length catheters. Additionally, there is a growing awareness among women regarding the benefits of intermittent catheterization, leading to higher adoption rates.

Breakup by End User:

• Hospitals
• Medical Research Centers
• Ambulatory Surgical Centers
   

Hospitals hold the maximum share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end user have also been provided in the report. This includes hospitals, medical research centers, and ambulatory surgical centers. According to the report, hospitals accounted for the largest market share.

Hospitals typically handle a higher volume of patients, including those requiring complex and continuous care, such as individuals with severe urinary disorders or post-surgical needs. The availability of specialized medical staff, advanced facilities, and immediate access to treatment options make hospitals the preferred setting for catheterization procedures. Additionally, hospitals often manage a significant number of chronic cases, requiring ongoing catheter use, which contributes to the consistent demand for intermittent catheters in these settings. This reliance on hospitals for both acute and long-term care drives their leading position in the market.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America leads the market, accounting for the largest intermittent catheters market share

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America represents the largest regional market for intermittent catheters.

North America is a leading force in the growth of the market, driven by the high prevalence of urological disorders, particularly among the geriatric population, which increases the demand for catheterization products. The well-established healthcare infrastructure in the United States and Canada supports the adoption of advanced medical devices, including intermittent catheters. Additionally, there is a strong focus on home healthcare, with many patients opting for self-catheterization due to the convenience and cost-effectiveness it offers. The presence of major market players in North America also contributes to its dominance. These companies are at the forefront of innovation, developing new catheter designs that improve patient comfort and reduce the risk of infections. Moreover, the region's emphasis on patient education and awareness about urological health also drives the increasing adoption of these catheters.

Competitive Landscape:

• The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include B. Braun Melsungen AG, Becton Dickinson and Company, Coloplast A/S, Cure Medical LLC (Convatec Group plc), Hollister Incorporated, Hunter Urology, Medical Technologies of Georgia Inc., Pennine Healthcare Ltd., Teleflex Inc, and Wellspect Limited (Dentsply Sirona).
  
  (Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)
   
• Key players in the market are driving growth through innovation, strategic partnerships, and expansion into emerging markets. Companies like B. Braun, Coloplast, and Teleflex are investing heavily in research and development to introduce advanced products that enhance patient comfort and safety. They are expanding their product portfolios by introducing new catheter designs, such as hydrophilic and pre-lubricated options, which are gaining popularity for their ease of use and reduced friction. Additionally, they are expanding distribution networks, particularly in emerging economies, to tap into the growing demand in these regions, further fueling market growth and competitive dynamics. The intermittent catheter market research report highlights how these companies are also focusing on strategic acquisitions and collaborations to strengthen their market presence.

Intermittent Catheters Market News:

• March 21, 2023: Coloplast A/S launched Luja, the first male catheter featuring over 80 micro holes, designed to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) linked to intermittent catheterization. By addressing critical risk factors linked to UTIs, the Luja catheter sets a new standard in the market, offering a significant improvement in the comfort and health outcomes for male patients requiring intermittent catheterization.
• May 16, 2024: Wellspect Limited introduced the LoFric Origo Sleeve, a new extension to its LoFric Origo catheter range, at EAUN24. This addition enhances the non-touch technique, improving ease of use and reducing contamination risk during catheterization. The LoFric Origo range, available in various sizes and tips, features Wellspect's patented Urotonic Surface Technology, ensuring smooth catheterization and promoting long-term urethral health.

Intermittent Catheters Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the intermittent catheters market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global intermittent catheters market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the intermittent catheters industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.