External Urinary Catheters for Women in Singapore: How the BD PureWick System Works

Night-time urinary incontinence is one of the most exhausting parts of home caregiving in Singapore. Repeated diaper changes interrupt sleep for both the care recipient and the caregiver, and damp skin overnight raises the risk of rashes and pressure injuries. An external urinary catheter such as the BD PureWick system offers a different approach: it collects urine as it leaves the body, without anything being inserted.

What is the BD PureWick system?

The PureWick system has two parts. The PureWick Female External Catheter is a soft, flexible wick that sits externally along the perineum, held in place by the body and underwear. It connects by tubing to the PureWick Urine Collection System, a quiet bedside unit that applies gentle suction, drawing urine through the wick into a sealed canister. Nothing enters the urethra, which is what separates it from an indwelling (Foley) catheter.

Who is it suitable for?

PureWick is used by women managing overnight incontinence, people recovering from surgery, those with limited mobility, and care recipients for whom frequent diaper changes are painful or disruptive. Because it is non-invasive, it avoids the urinary tract infection risk associated with indwelling catheters. It is not a treatment for incontinence itself, and anyone with recurrent urinary tract infections or broken skin in the area should check with their doctor or a continence nurse first.

How is it set up at home?

Setup is simple enough for a family caregiver: place the collection unit on a bedside table, connect the canister and tubing, position the wick, and switch on. The catheter is replaced every 8 to 12 hours or when soiled; each wick is single use. The canister is emptied and rinsed daily, and the canister, lid and tubing are refreshed periodically with the accessory replacement kit.

What does the PureWick system cost in Singapore?

At EMIS+, the collection system is S$1,220 as a one-time purchase. Catheters are the recurring cost: S$12.50 for a single piece, or S$345 for a box of 30, which works out to about S$11.50 per catheter. A box covers roughly a month of nightly use. A male version is also available for men who are not compatible with condom catheters.

Is it worth it compared to diapers alone?

For overnight use the two approaches solve different problems. Diapers absorb urine against the skin; PureWick moves urine away from the skin entirely, which helps protect fragile skin and means fewer night-time changes. Many families use PureWick overnight and standard continence products in the day. A continence nurse can help you decide what combination suits your situation.

EMIS+ is a nurse-led medical supply store in Singapore. Browse the full BD PureWick range or contact us for advice on continence care products.