Complex-sounding medical procedures are notorious for creating feelings of anxiety in those who face them, and a cystoscopy is no exception. The name itself can sound intimidating, and the idea of a procedure that involves the bladder and urethra might even create additional worry. However, while the term might sound intimidating, a cystoscopy is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure frequently performed right in your doctor’s office.
Learn more about cystoscopies and what you can expect from this common procedure.
What Is a Cystoscopy?
A cystoscopy is a minimally invasive medical procedure performed with the purpose of examining a person’s urethra and bladder for abnormalities. During a cystoscopy, a physician uses a thin, telescope-like tube equipped with a light and a camera called a cystoscope. As the thin tube is gently inserted through the urethra and into the bladder, the camera transmits to a monitor, providing your doctor with a clear view.
There are two types of cystoscopes: rigid and flexible. As its name suggests, a rigid cystoscope is a straight, relatively firm tube often preferred for its clear images and its ability to enable the smoother passage of other medical instruments for biopsies. A flexible cystoscope is made of thinner, bendable materials that can more easily navigate the curves of the urethra. This can be more comfortable for patients.
Why Is a Cystoscopy Performed?
Cystoscopy may identify several issues related to the urinary tract.
These can include:
- Blood in the Urine (Hematuria) – Identifying the source of blood in the urine is a common reason for performing a cystoscopy. The procedure can reveal infections, bladder stones, tumors, or other abnormalities.
- Painful Urination (Dysuria) – Cystoscopy can help determine the cause of pain or burning during urination, such as inflammation, infection, or structural issues.
- Frequent Urination or Urinary Urgency – These symptoms may indicate bladder irritation, an overactive bladder, or other underlying conditions. A cystoscopy can help providers reach a diagnosis.
- Urinary Incontinence – This procedure can help providers evaluate the bladder and urethra to identify potential cases of incontinence, such as structural problems or nerve issues.
- Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urination – Cystoscopy could help identify blockages that are creating problems with urination.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – If UTIs are frequent, the procedure could help identify contributing factors.
- Incomplete Voiding – People experiencing the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying may need a cystoscopy to identify the cause.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain – In some cases, a cystoscopy may be performed to investigate urinary tract involvement in chronic pelvic pain.
In general, cystoscopies give medical providers the opportunity to identify and diagnose bladder, urethral, and urinary tract conditions.
A cystoscopy can be used to diagnose:
- Bladder cancer
- Bladder stones
- Bladder inflammation (cystitis)
- Urethral strictures
- Congenital abnormalities
- Foreign bodies
- Interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome
Other bladder and urethral conditions can be treated using a cystoscopy camera and a tube to guide medical instruments.
Procedures and interventions may include:
- Removal of small bladder tumors or polyps
- Removal of bladder stones
- Widening narrowed areas of the urethra through urethral dilation
- Overactive bladder injections
- Placement or removal of stents (small tubes) to relieve blockages
- Repairing small fistulas, which are abnormal connections between the bladder and other structures.
Early detection and diagnosis are key to avoiding the serious and life-altering complications that can come with bladder and urinary tract issues. Prompt intervention prevents worsening symptoms and the development of chronic conditions, creates the opportunity for more effective treatment, improves outcomes, and boosts survival rates for conditions like urinary tract cancers.
Preparing for the Procedure
If your physician has recommended a cystoscopy, it is crucial that you ask questions and review cystoscopy information so that you are comfortable and informed. Your physician will explain the details of the test to you, including what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
They will discuss:
- The purpose of the test
- Whether it will occur in the office or another outpatient setting
- How it will be performed
- Whether local or general anesthesia will be used
- Any potential risks or discomforts you can expect
- When and how you can expect to receive the results
Before the procedure, you’ll be asked to sign a consent form. This indicates your agreement to undergo the test. Make sure you review this form thoroughly and ask your healthcare team to clarify anything you may not understand.
If the cystoscopy is used as a diagnostic tool, you’ll likely only need local anesthesia to numb the urethra. However, if the cystoscopy is used to perform a procedure or biopsy, you may require general anesthesia, though this is extremely rare. If so, there will likely be specific fasting guidelines you’ll need to follow before the test. Be sure to carefully follow any instructions you receive about when to stop eating and drinking, or what you might be allowed to drink. You might also receive instructions about following a special diet for one to two days before the test.
Remember:
- It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or suspect that you might be.
- Let your healthcare provider know if you have any sensitivities or allergic reactions to medications, latex, iodine, tape, or any type of anesthesia.
- Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take, including any vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies.
- You will need someone to drive you home after receiving sedation or anesthesia.
What to Expect During a Cystoscopy
A cystoscopy is a standard and generally well-tolerated procedure. However, getting informed about what to expect can ease some anxieties you may have.
The process typically begins with your physician positioning you comfortably, which usually means lying on your back with your knees bent. The medical staff will ensure your privacy and maintain a professional and discreet environment throughout the procedure.
Before the cystoscope is gently inserted, a local anesthetic gel is typically applied to the urethra to numb the area and minimize any discomfort. In some cases, depending on your medical history or anxiety levels, your doctor might recommend light sedation. If another procedure is scheduled, you may receive general anesthesia.
The cystoscope is then carefully passed through the urethra and into the bladder. Your physician may allow sterile saline to flow into your bladder to help expand it and make the lining of the bladder easier to see. You may feel some pressure or a mild urge to urinate, but the procedure should not be painful. The cystoscopy procedure is generally relatively quick, often taking about 5 to 15 minutes to complete.
After the Cystoscopy: Recovery and Side Effects
Following the procedure, if you received sedation or anesthesia, you will be moved to a recovery area for monitoring. The specifics of this recovery will depend on the type of sedation you received. Once your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing are consistent and you are awake, you will either be transferred to another room or allowed to go home. You can typically return to your regular diet and activities unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
Important Post-Cystoscopy Notes
- It is important to increase your fluid intake after a cystoscopy to help dilute your urine and ease urinary discomfort.
- To ease any remaining discomfort, you can apply a warm, damp washcloth over your urethral opening or take a warm bath.
- It is normal to see some blood in your urine, pink urine, or experience mild burning during urination for the first day or two.
- Take pain medication for soreness or discomfort only as recommended by your healthcare provider. Avoid aspirin and NSAID medications like ibuprofen and naproxen that may increase bleeding risk.
- Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic; be sure to take it as instructed.
- You should contact your healthcare provider if you experience fever or chills, frequent or urgent need to urinate, inability to urinate, lower back pain, or continued burning or blood in your urine.
Answering Frequently Asked Questions about Cystoscopies
If you are facing a cystoscopy, you may have questions about what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions our patients have about cystoscopy:
Cystoscopy at Arizona Gynecology Consultants
If you are facing a cystoscopy at Arizona Gynecology Consultants, you can trust our experienced team to provide exceptional care and genuine compassion. Our dedicated physicians and staff have performed many cystoscopies. We approach each unique case with a deep understanding and refined technique.
We believe in clear communication and strive to ensure you feel informed and empowered. Before your cystoscopy, the procedure will be explained to you thoroughly, and any questions or anxieties you may have will be addressed. We understand the personal nature of gynecological health, and our staff is trained to guide you through each step.
If you would like to learn more about AZGYN cystoscopy or have specific questions, we encourage you to visit our services page for more detailed information.
Please do not hesitate to call our office to speak with a member of our caring team. We are here to support your health journey.
Schedule Your Consultation at AZGYN
Urinary issues can be disruptive to your life and lead to additional health concerns. Understanding the root cause of your symptoms is the first step towards finding relief and regaining control over your health. Take the first steps to address your concerns by consulting with a specialist who can ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment options. Book a consultation with a women’s health specialist at AZGYN today.
Founder and Medical Director of ARIZONA GYNECOLOGY CONSULTANTS
Dr. Kelly Roy is a specialist in surgical gynecology and advanced laparoscopy (and hysteroscopy). She is a long-time resident of Arizona and obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering at Arizona State University before finishing her Doctorate of Medicine at the University of Arizona in 1997.
Dr. Roy completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the then “Banner Good Samaritan Hospital” (now Banner University Medical Center), in Phoenix Arizona in 2001.
Well known for her teaching and surgical ability, she is on the faculty at the residency program at both Banner University Medical Center and Saint Joseph’s Hospital in central Phoenix and is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix Campus. Dr. Roy has taught advanced surgical techniques to medical students, residents, fellows and colleagues for over 15 years.
Dr. Roy is also a consultant to the medical device industry and has participated in the design and clinical testing of many instruments and surgical devices available on the world-wide market today.
Read More About Dr. Kelly Roy, MD | WebMD Profile | Health.USNews.com Profile | Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Reports: TFA with the Sonata System
