About Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy is a procedure that lets your doctor look inside of your urethra and bladder using a special camera, called a cystoscope.

Cystoscopy is a short procedure that can be done in the office with little pain. You will often be able to watch the images on the screen while it is being done. It takes about 10 to 20 minutes to set up and 5 minutes to complete the procedure. 
These are some of the reasons your urologist or urogynecologist might suggest cystoscopy: 

• Bladder control problems such as urinary incontinence or overactive bladder.
  
• Prior surgery near or involving the bladder.
  
• Blood in the urine.
  
• Unusual cells seen under the microscope in your urine sample.
  
• Frequent urinary tract or bladder infections.
  
• Pain in the bladder, urethra, or pelvic area.

The risks of cystoscopy are very low. Some women may develop a urinary tract infection afterwards, but this is unusual. Thus, antibiotics are not necessary before cystoscopy. Other risks include mild bleeding, discomfort or injury to the bladder or urethra. 

For more information about Cystosocpy download this PDF.