Common Testing Done in Urogynecology

During your urogynecology visit to our office, we will review your history and complaints as found on the urogynecology questionnaire. Your history may lead us to recommend urodynamic testing

Urodynamics refers to a series of diagnostic tests that evaluate the function of your bladder and uretha. These tests may be recommended if you have urinary incontinence (leakage of urine), recurrent bladder infections, a slow or weak urinary stream, incomplete bladder emptying, or frequent urination. Urodynamic tests provide valuable information to aid in the accurate diagnosis of your urinary problems.

How to Prepare for Urodynamics

• Prior to your appointment you will be asked to complete a bladder diary or questionnaire. Please bring this with you to the appointment.
• Unless otherwise directed you should take your normally scheduled medications. You may eat and drink prior to the study.
• The series of tests typically take less than one hour. You will be able to resume all previous activities, including driving, upon completion of the Urodynamics studies.
• Please arrive for the study with a comfortably full bladder.

Dr. Mitchell-Springer will decide which of the following procedures are appropriate for you:

Uroflowmetry

This study measures your urinary flow rate. You should come to the test feeling as though you need to urinate. Try not to empty your bladder one hour before your test is scheduled.

Ultrasound

A procedure that uses sound waves to study the anal sphincter, bladder, urethra, kidneys, ureters or other pelvic organs. Tumors and other pelvic masses, including abscesses, can be identified using ultrasound techniques.

Electrodiagnostic Testing (EDT) of the Pelvic Floor

This study measure how well you can control your sphincter (outlet) muscles and helps determine if they are working in coordination with you bladder. “Sticky patches” (electrodes) will be placed near the rectum to record sphincter muscle activity.

Cystometrogram

This study measures your bladder capacity, evaluates how your bladder holds urine, and determines how well you can control your bladder muscle.

One very small catheter will be placed in your bladder, and another catheter will measure both the pressure inside your bladder and the pressure your body exerts on your bladder.

You will be asked to report the sensations you feel as your bladder is filled ( such as when you feel the need to urinate and when that feeling intensifies.

Pressure Flow Study

This study measures how well the bladder muscles, the sphincter, and the urethra work together. This test may be done sitting on a commode or standing. Your bladder will be filled until you feel your bladder is completely full. You will then be asked to urinate. The computer will measure the strength of your bladder muscles and sphincter, as well as the urinary flow rate and voided volume.