Urodynamic testing

Urodynamic testing is a set of tests that check how well your bladder, urethra (the tube that carries urine from your bladder to the outside of your body), and muscles work together to hold and empty urine. These tests measure things like how much urine your bladder can hold, how well it empties, and if there are any problems like leaks or blockages. The doctor may use small catheters (thin tubes) to fill your bladder with water and measure pressure, muscle activity, and urine flow. This helps find the cause of bladder control problems, such as incontinence or difficulty urinating.

There are two kinds of tests:

1. Uroflowmetry
2. Cystometry

Preparation

You don’t need to do much to prepare for these tests, but you will need to give a urine sample first to make sure you don’t have an infection. Also, check with your doctor if you need to stop taking any medications before the test. The test takes about 30 minutes.

If you have a urinary infection, you’ll need to take antibiotics before you can have the test.

Once the tests are finished, your doctor will go over the results with you and talk about any next steps for treatment. To help ease any discomfort while urinating, drink plenty of fluids.

If you have a spinal cord injury or certain neurological conditions, urodynamic testing may trigger autonomic dysreflexia - a sudden and dangerous rise in blood pressure. This happens when the body overreacts to bladder filling or discomfort during the test. If you are at risk, inform your doctor beforehand so that precautions can be taken.

Bladder diary

A bladder diary can help you and your doctor understand patterns in your bathroom visits, which can help decide the best treatment for you. Here’s how to keep a bladder diary:

• Write down the times you use the bathroom during the day and night.
• Try to measure or guess how much urine you pass each time.
• Write down how much and what you drink, including water, tea, coffee, etc.
• Write down if you feel any discomfort or pain when you pee, or if you feel the need to go often.
• Write down how many times you wake up at night to go to the bathroom and how long you are awake each time.

By keeping this diary for a few days, you can give your doctor helpful information to figure out what's causing your symptoms and find the best treatment for you.

This chapter contains general information about urodynamic testing. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: February 2025