Urodynamics

No matter how carefully the test is performed urine infections can sometimes occur after it. You should drink more water than usual for a day or two to flush out any bacteria. You may be advised to take tablets of antibiotics for a short period of time after the test to prevent infection.

You will normally be asked to attend for the tests with a comfortably full bladder, so if possible, please do not pass urine in the hour prior to your appointment. The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes and does not require any dieting or fasting. No anesthetic is required. On the day of the test, wear separates (i.e. a skirt or trousers and shirt), as you will need to remove your lower clothing and change into a gown.

There are several slightly different ways that Urodynamics can be performed, but the principles are the same for all.

You will then be asked to pass urine into a special toilet to measure how quickly your bladder is able to empty. You may have a bladder scan immediately after you have passed urine to assess how well your bladder has emptied.

Following this, a small plastic tube called a catheter will be inserted into your bladder so it can be filled with fluid. Two fine soft catheters (sensors) will also be inserted, one into the bladder and the other into the vagina or rectum. These lines will record pressures measured in your bladder and abdomen.

During the procedure, you will be asked questions about the sensations in your bladder. You will also be asked to do some of the things that might trigger the problem you have (e.g., cough, strain, jog, stand up, or listen to the sound of running water). Let the person doing the test know when your bladder feels full.

Finally, you will be asked to empty your bladder again, with the two fine sensors still in place. The sensors are then removed, and the procedure is complete, and you can get dressed.