Silicone foley catheters are used to drain the bladder due to urinary incontinence (leaking urine or being unable to control when you urinate), Urinary retention (being unable to empty your bladder when you need to), Surgery on the prostate or genitals or some other medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, or dementia. Catheters come in many sizes, materials (latex, silicone, Teflon), and types (straight or coude tip).