Sounding is when you insert rods (usually plastic or steel) into your uretha.

Sounding can lead to complications if not conducted carefully. Problems may include irritation, tearing of the urethra and sounding can cause urinary tract infections. Infections can become serious if they progress to the bladder or kidneys so if you feel any irritation, see your doctor immediately. If you are planning on sounding, you should make sure you use good quality steel rods, plenty of water-based lubricant, disinfect everything you insert in your body and never force the rod down your urethra - it should move down naturally. If you start bleeding or you feel that you are starting to have an infection, go to A&E immediately. You should not share sounding rods.