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What are urodynamic bladder pressure studies?

Your consultant has asked that you have an investigation called urodynamics. This is a test which looks at the activity of the bladder as it fills and empties. 

Why are urodynamics done?

Urodynamics is necessary to assist the doctors in deciding on the most appropriate form of treatment for you. Not everyone having urodynamics will have a specific problem with their bladder, for example you may be having an operation for a prolapse. The consultant needs to ensure that any treatment will not make your particular problem or symptoms worse.

How are urodynamic studies performed?

The test is divided into three separate sections which are carried out over a 60 minute period.

  • In the first part of the test you will be asked to empty your bladder on a special toilet that measures the rate at which your bladder empties.
  • In the second part of the test a very fine catheter is passed through the water pipe (urethra) into the bladder and a second fine tube is placed in your back passage. These lines are then connected to a computer which will record the pressure in your bladder and tummy (using the line in your bottom) as your bladder is filled with sterile water.
  • The third and final part comes when your bladder is full and you again empty your bladder into the commode, this time with the pressure measuring tubes in place. This is to assess the pressure that is required to empty your bladder. 

During the procedure, every effort will be made to minimise discomfort and maximise your privacy. The test is done using sterile equipment and no injections are needed. 

What should I do prior to the test?

•    You need to complete a bladder diary for 3 days
•    We would also like you to bring a urine sample with you in a clean/sterile pot. 

IF one of your problems is having to rush to the toilet to empty your bladder, you may have been prescribed a tablet such as: oxybutynin / tolterodine / darifenacin / fesoterodine / mirabegron / solifenacin / trospium to “calm your bladder down”.

It is essential that you stop taking these tablets 2 weeks prior to your urodynamics appointment.
The test may not go ahead if the tablets haven’t been stopped as these tablets can affect the results of the test.

If you are unsure if the tablets you are taking may affect the test please contact us on:

You may eat and drink normally before this test.

You need to come with a comfortably full bladder ready for the first part of the test. If you are unable to hold on and need to empty your bladder while you are waiting for the test, please alert the reception staff.

Are there any risks associated with urodynamics?

There is a 2% risk of getting a urinary tract infection or making an existing infection worse. We ask for a urine sample prior to the test to make sure it shows no evidence of an infection. If there is, the test will have to be postponed. (Some people can have urine infections without having any symptoms).

You may pass a little blood in your urine after the test; this is not a concern as it usually settles on its own. You may experience mild discomfort or urinary frequency for a few hours which should settle down.

What happens after the urodynamics test?

The result of the test will be explained to you before you leave the department and be available on your record for your consultant to review.

It is important to drink extra fluids for 24 hours after the test to reduce the risk of infection. Should you have cystitis type burning for more than 24 hours after the test please contact your GP as you may need antibiotics. Normal activity can be resumed after the test. 

Points to remember

•    Stop bladder medication 2 weeks before the test
•    You must fill in the bladder diary sent with your appointment and bring it with you on the day
•    Please bring a fresh urine sample with you on the day
•    Please arrive with a comfortably full bladder
•    Do not pass urine on arrival

Contact details

•    Gynae Outpatient nurses, Heatherwood: 0300 614 4057
•    Frimley patients urogynae secretary: 0300 613 6079
•    Wexham patients urogynae secretary: 0300 615 6021

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Gynaecology service.

About this information

Service:
Gynaecology

Reference:
L/127

Approval date:
20 December 2024

Review date:
1 November 2027

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.