Cystoscopy

A closer look at the bladder to help diagnose urinary symptoms

A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to look directly inside the bladder and urethra using a thin tube with a camera, called a cystoscope. It’s a useful way to find the cause of symptoms such as recurrent urinary tract infections, incontinence or blood in the urine.

Why might you need a cystoscopy?

A cystoscopy can help diagnose or investigate:

• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Urinary incontinence or leakage
• Blood in the urine (haematuria)
• Painful urination
• Frequent urges to pass urine
• Difficulty emptying the bladder

It may also be used to monitor bladder conditions or check the results of previous treatments.

What happens during the procedure?

• A fine, flexible cystoscope is gently passed into the urethra and into the bladder.
• The bladder is filled with sterile fluid to allow a clear view of the bladder lining.
• The procedure usually takes only a few minutes and can often be done under local anaesthetic.
• In some cases, a slightly larger cystoscope may be used under sedation or general anaesthetic if treatment is needed at the same time.

Is it uncomfortable?

Most women find the procedure only mildly uncomfortable, with a sensation of needing to pass urine. A local anaesthetic gel is usually applied to ease any discomfort, and the test is generally well tolerated.

What are the benefits?

• Quick and direct visual assessment of the bladder
• Helps guide treatment for urinary symptoms
• Usually a short, outpatient procedure
• No incisions or stitches

After the procedure, it’s common to feel some mild stinging when passing urine and to notice a small amount of blood. These symptoms usually settle within 24–48 hours.

If you’ve been advised to have a cystoscopy and would like to understand more about what it involves, please get in touch to speak with us or to arrange a consultation.