"Try to bear down as if you are urinating while I insert the catheter; this helps relax your external sphincter and eases insertion."

"Take sips of water during the procedure; it will help distract you and make insertion easier."

"Relax completely and I will insert the catheter slowly without any action needed from you."

"Hold your breath tightly until I tell you to breathe again; this will help the catheter pass more easily."