Bladder Function (Urodynamic) Tests

Urodynamic tests check the function of your bladder, they show how well your bladder stores and releases urine.

About urodynamic testing

Urodynamic tests are designed to show how well your bladder is storing and releasing urine. They are carried out if you're experiencing bladder problems and there isn't an obvious cause. They may also help to explain night time urgency, urinary incontinence, painful urination and recurring urinary tract infections.

Need to know

What happens during the test?

Your consultant or nurse will fill your bladder with fluid using a small, soft catheter (tube), which will be put into your bladder. Another catheter will be inserted into your rectum. After connecting the catheters to a computer, your consultant or nurse will measure how well your bladder responds. They'll also measure how well your bladder works when you pass urine.

The test will take about 30 minutes and you can usually go home straight after it. You may also have an X-ray screening to look at the way your bladder expands and contracts.

How to prepare

You'll be asked to stop taking any bladder medication in preparation for your test. Your consultant will tell you when you should do this. You can eat and drink as usual before having a urodynamic test. And you'll normally be asked to come to your appointment with a comfortably full bladder.

After the test

You should drink plenty of fluids for the first 24 to 48 hours after your test to help reduce the risk of urine infection. You may be given antibiotics in preparation for this. A follow-up appointment will be made with your urologist to discuss the results of your test.