The effects of low levels of methacrylic acid (MAA) and a crosslinker on the equilibrium swelling and water content of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) hydrogels were investigated. Numerous pHEMA disks, some of which were doped with small amounts of MAA, were placed in swelling baths simulating possible urological as well as physiological conditions. Several interesting facts are reported, such as, in dilute urea (0. 15M) or in alkali solution, gels containing 2% MAA are capable of swelling to 3600% their size in mild acid, saline, or distilled water, with associated water contents that range as high as 98%. Also, gels containing small amounts of MAA and finite crosslinker content can be made that are soluble in mild urea or alkali solution.