The dynamic study of the bladder and urethra to assess how they transport, store and release urine. The testing that is performed helps your doctor see how well your bladder and sphincter muscles work. The tests can also help explain symptoms you may be experiencing such as: incontinence (leaking of urine), frequent urination, sudden/strong urges to urinate, difficulty starting a urine stream, painful urination, difficulty emptying your bladder, or recurrent urinary infections.
Before the Procedure
Your physician may ask you to keep a daily diary for 3-7 days prior to testing, where you will give details of the time and amount of urination that occurs. Ask your doctor prior to scheduling about which medications that may need to be stopped prior to testing. Reschedule the test if you are currently being treated for a urinary tract infection.
The Procedure
You will need to arrive to your urodynamics test with a comfortably full bladder, and allow yourself at least one hour for completion of your test. There are several different types of urodynamics tests. Your physician will order the appropriate test according to the urinary symptoms you are experiencing, but most tests focus on the bladder’s ability to empty completely and steadily, while also indicating any abnormal contractions causing leakages to occur.
You will need to tell the urodynamics technician if you are having difficulty starting a stream, maintaining a stream, or if there is any interruption in your urine stream.
Minimally invasive urinary and rectal catheters will be used to precisely measure pressures within your bladder and abdomen. You may experience mild discomfort with the insertion of these catheters. We will strive to keep you as comfortable as possible during the entire test.
After the Procedure
You will be able to resume all normal activities, including driving, after the procedure. Normally, you may experience mild discomfort with urination for several hours after the test. We encourage you to drink 8 oz of water every half-hour for 2 hours after the test. Taking a warm bath or holding a warm, damp washcloth over your urethral opening may also help.
Risks/Complications
A small number of patients may experience minor problems. The most common problems are:
• Increased frequency in passing urine
• Traces of blood in the urine
• Slight discomfort when passing urine
All of these symptoms are temporary and should go away quickly. The nurse will discuss this with you prior to leaving. You may receive a 1-2 day supply of antibiotics after the test to prevent any possible infection. If you experience pain, chills, or fever call your provider immediately for this may indicate an infection.
