Cystoscopy is a commonly performed urological procedure. Many patients ask what is cystoscopy and why it is recommended. The procedure allows doctors to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra. It is used to investigate urinary symptoms and identify underlying conditions. It also helps guide appropriate treatment. It is routinely performed in both men and women and is often carried out as a day procedure without hospital admission.
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What is cystoscopy?
Cystoscopy is the procedure in which a cystoscope is gently passed through the urethra into the bladder. A cystoscope is a flexible tube with a lens. It helps doctors diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions affecting the bladder, prostate, and urinary tract.
It is routinely used in both men and women and is often performed as a day procedure without the need for hospital admission.
Why is cystoscopy done?
The process helps diagnose and treat bladder and urethral conditions. A doctor may recommend this procedure to:
- Investigate blood in the urine (haematuria)
- Assess recurring urinary tract infections
- Identify bladder stones, tumours, or inflammation
- Evaluate prostate-related urinary symptoms in men
- Check the causes of painful or difficult urination
- Monitor known bladder conditions
- Remove small bladder stones or take tissue samples (biopsy)
There are possibilities for a second procedure. That is called ureteroscopy, which uses small scopes to take a look at the tubes. It carries urine to the bladder from the kidneys, and it is known as the ureters.
What are the risks involved in cystoscopy?
Cystoscopy is generally a safe and well-tolerated procedure. Though, like any other medical test, it does carry some risks. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as:
- Bleeding: Sometimes, it might be a cause for a slight bleeding in your urine. In rare cases, the bleeding may get severe.
- Pain: Following the procedure, some people experience mild discomfort in the lower abdomen along with a stinging or burning sensation during urination. These effects are usually temporary and gradually ease as the body recovers.
- Infection: In a rare scenario, it may cause infection. It can pass germs into the urinary tract, and there is a possibility of developing a UTI. This usually happens with old people, people who smoke and those with poor nutrition.
Serious complication symptoms of cystoscopy
Although it is generally safe, seek urgent medical help if any of the following symptoms occur:
- Trouble urinating after the procedure
- Blood clots in urine
- Having an upset stomach and pain
- Higher temperature up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit and chills
- Burning sensation while urinating for more than two days
What are the preparations before the procedure?
In most cases, preparing for a cystoscopy is simple. Your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions tailored to the type of cystoscopy being performed.
Before the procedure, you may be advised to:
- Drink plenty of fluids, unless told otherwise
- Continue your regular medications, unless your doctor advises a pause
- Inform your doctor about any allergies, bleeding disorders, or current infections
- Provide a urine sample to check for infection before the test
- Empty your bladder just before the procedure
If sedation or general anaesthesia is planned:
- You may be asked to fast for several hours beforehand
- Arrange for someone to drive you home
What is the procedure during and after cystoscopy?
During cystoscopy
A simple procedure performed in an examination room usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. If the procedure is carried out in a hospital using medication to help you relax or sleep, it typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes.
Steps involved in the procedure:
- You will be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure. You will then lie on your back on an examination table. In some cases, your knees may be bent and your feet placed in supports.
- You may be given medication to help you relax or make you sleepy. A sedative allows you to remain awake but calm, while general anaesthesia means you will be asleep during the procedure. These medications are usually given through a vein in your arm.
- The healthcare professional will clean the area around the urethral opening and apply a numbing gel to reduce discomfort. After allowing time for the area to become numb, the cystoscope is gently inserted into the urethra.
- Sterile fluid may be used to fill the bladder, allowing a clearer view of the bladder lining. As the bladder fills, you may feel pressure or the urge to urinate. You will be able to empty your bladder once the procedure is complete.
- The healthcare professional will carefully examine the urethra and bladder using the camera and light at the tip of the cystoscope. The images may be displayed on a screen for closer evaluation.
- If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken, or minor procedures performed, using specialised instruments passed through the cystoscope.
After cystoscopy
You can usually resume your normal activities soon after this procedure. If you were given medication to help you relax or put you into a sleep-like state, you may spend a short time in a recovery area before being discharged.
What are the side effects?
It’s common to experience mild, short-term effects such as:
- Light bleeding from the urethra, which may appear as pink-tinged urine or blood on toilet tissue
- A burning sensation when passing urine
- Increased frequency of urination for one to two days
How to Reduce Discomfort?
You may find relief by:
- Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush the bladder (about 16 ounces or 473 ml of water per hour for the first two hours)
- Taking over-the-counter pain relief, if needed
- Applying a warm, damp cloth to the urethral opening to reduce soreness
- Taking a warm bath, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare professional
Conclusion
Knowing what is cystoscopy is more crucial before undergoing the procedure. It is a safe and commonly used procedure that helps doctors diagnose and manage conditions of the bladder, prostate, and urinary tract. While mild discomfort or temporary symptoms may occur, serious complications are rare. Knowing what to expect before and after the procedure can ease anxiety, and a timely cystoscopy can support early diagnosis and appropriate treatment for better long-term urinary health.
If you have any concerns or symptoms that worsen after your cystoscopy, contact a healthcare professional for advice.
FAQs
1. Is cystoscopy painful?
Cystoscopy is usually not painful, though you may feel mild discomfort or a brief burning sensation.
2. How long does a cystoscopy take?
A cystoscopy typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on whether sedation is used.
3. Can I go home the same day after a cystoscopy?
Yes, most cystoscopy procedures are done as day cases and do not require hospital admission.
4. Is it normal to see blood in urine in this process?
Yes, a small amount of blood or pink-tinged urine is common and usually settles within a day or two.
5. When should I contact a doctor after the procedure?
You should seek medical advice if you develop a fever, severe pain, difficulty urinating, or heavy bleeding.
