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.

Last updated: February 2025