Gynaecology Outpatients
Why do I need this test?
Your consultant needs more information about your bladder function to ensure that you receive the correct treatment especially if an operation is planned for incontinence or prolapse.
Video urodynamics is a special test of your bladder function and it helps us diagnose your problem.
Please allow one to two hours for the test and the consultation following it. The test is carried out in the radiology department, at The James Cook University Hospital, under x-ray control.
If you have not been through the menopause you need to ensure you are not pregnant as x-rays are performed as part of this test. If there are doubts around this issue then your test will be cancelled on the day.
The test can be carried out during menstruation (your period) provided that you do not use a tampon but we will understand if you prefer to rearrange the test for a different date.
What happens before the test?
You can eat and drink as usual before the test. Please stop taking tablets prescribed for your bladder 48 hours before the test unless you have been advised by your gynaecologist to continue taking them during the days leading up to the test.
Take any other medications as usual. If you are usually constipated please make sure you have a bowel motion the day before the test.
If you have been given or fitted with a pessary for prolapse, please come along with the pessary. If you experience new urine infection symptoms (burning on passing urine) the week before your test, please see your GP for treatment.
Important
Please DO NOT pass urine for a couple of hours before you come to the clinic.
What does it involve?
There will be a female nurse practitioner with you all the time. She or the doctor will pass a thin tube (catheter) into your bladder in order to fill it up with fluid and another thin tube will be inserted into your back passage to measure the pressure.
You will be wearing a theatre gown when the nurse practitioner takes you to the x-ray room where there will be a radiographer, a doctor (consultant gynaecologist), a technician and a female nurse.
Your privacy will be respected at all times but unfortunately we cannot guarantee an all female staff for this test.
Feel free to ask questions. Everyone will do their best to make you feel at ease.
What happens after the test?
If a doctor is present, he will explain the results and give you treatment straight away. Otherwise the results will be sent to your consultant who will arrange your next appointment.
You may notice a small amount of blood in your urine and feel a slight discomfort in your bladder for 24 hours. It is therefore a good idea to increase the amount of fluids you drink for 24 hours after the test to reduce the risk of a urine infection.
This risk is minimal at around one infection per 25 people. If you are still getting bladder irritation symptoms 24 hours after the test then please contact your family doctor for advice as you may need treatment.
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact The Patient Experience Department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the Patient Experience Department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print.
T: 01642 835964
E: [email protected]