A catheter is a medical instrument that is mainly made up of a thin insertable tube. It is used to aid in surgery and in treating diseases. Functions include administering gases and liquids, and drainage. A catheter can be tailor-made for specific uses, such as a urethral catheter and gastrointestinal, neurovascular, and cardiovascular catheters.
A catheter is also used in sex, particularly in urethral play. Urethral play involves increasing the urethra's diameter by inserting a catheter, urethral sound, and other items into the meatus. This may aid in prostate gland stimulation and bladder control. There are risks associated with urethral play. Untrained insertion can result in irritation, infection, and tearing.
