If you require the use of a urinary catheter, it's natural for you to worry that your catheter will interfere with your ability to fly. However, many passengers travel by plane everyday while using their catheters. Planning ahead and knowing what to expect are vital to a relaxing flight -- whether it's across state lines or across the ocean.

Contact your airline in advance and let them know you'll be traveling with a catheter. Speaking with them ahead of time will give you a chance to discuss your concerns and have any questions answered. The airline will tell you what to expect during the flight in regard to its protocol for travelers with catheters. Speaking with your airline can help ensure you'll receive a seat in an area that accommodates your needs. For example, if you're more comfortable in an aisle seat or near the lavatories, speak up and request that those accommodations are made beforehand.

The Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, has a special phone line set up specifically for airline passengers with special needs. The TSA Cares hotline will provide information on navigating airport security quickly and with dignity. Calling the hotline 72 hours in advance will allow the TSA to coordinate airport specific support for you when you reach the security checkpoint. You can also print a Disability Notification Card for Air Travel from the TSA’s website. This allows you to discreetly inform the TSA officer at the security airport about your catheter.

You have the right to request a private screening if you're uncomfortable with completing safety screening in view of the public. You should not have to remove your catheter or the attached bag during screening, and you don't need to remove extra catheters from your carry-on. Your catheter bag and any lubricants you use are exempt from the TSA's standard liquid restrictions.

Keep your doctor informed about any long distance travel plans. Your doctor should be able to discuss any specific issues you may face while traveling and help you determine what steps you will need to take should any issues arise with your catheterization while you're traveling. If you or your doctor feel that your current catheter situation is not ideal for air travel, it is best to make changes far enough in advance to overcome any problems.

The most important issue when traveling with a catheter is to keep its use discreet and sanitary. A catheter bag rupturing due to airline pressure would be both embarrassing and difficult to manage for you and airline personnel. The catheter company can discuss the overall durability of the equipment you're using and provide tips to keep everything intact and working properly while you're in the air. The catheter supply company can also give you tips for a more relaxing flight, such as filling your catheter bag with water before the flight and letting some of the water out once you have reached flying altitude. This will keep the bag from filling with air due to cabin pressure changes.