Brigham Urogynecology Group
Brigham & Women’s Hospital (Main Office)
Newton-Wellesley Hospital
1032 Main Street in South Weymouth
Exeter Hospital in New Hampshire
Urodynamic Testing Information
What is an urodynamic study?
An urodynamic study is a test that is used to study the function of your bladder and urethra (the tube from
the bladder to the outside of the body). The test is very important as we can learn information that may
influence treatment for conditions including incontinence, voiding problems, and pelvic/bladder pain. This
test is not the same as the initial screening test at your first visit.
How is the study done?
When you arrive, we will place a tiny catheter (tube) into the bladder in order to fill the bladder with a
water solution. A second catheter is inserted either in the vagina or rectum to measure pressures from the
abdomen. The catheters are connected to a machine that records many important pieces of information
regarding your bladder during filling and emptying.
How long is the study?
We have set aside an hour for your test. Usually the test takes 30 - 45 minutes. If you are unable to make your
appointment, please call (617-732-4838) and let us know as soon as possible.
How do I prepare?
There is no advance preparation or medication required for the test. If you have a period, it is OK to
have the test. You may drive after the test.
What do I do during the study?
During the study you will be asked to let us know when you have various sensations in the bladder
(example: the first sensation that you need to urinate). You will be in a seated position, and you should
be very still during the study. We may ask you to cough or bear down periodically during the test to check
for urinary leakage.
Does it hurt?
You may experience some bladder irritation (burning, stinging, pressure, or urinary frequency) or even
a small amount of bleeding. Please drink plenty of water or juice after this test. This should resolve
within 24-48 hours. Please call the office if any symptoms persist for 24 hours and let us know @ 617-7324838. In case we need to order urinalysis and urine culture to rule out an infection, please give us a lab’s
fax number in your area, a pharmacy’s phone number, and your phone number where we can reach you or
leave a message. Final urine culture result usually takes 48 – 72 hours to complete.
What happens following the testing?
The doctor will interpret the test upon completion and will discuss the test results as well as further
management/treatment options with you on a follow-up visit. An appointment for this visit will be made
for you after completion of the testing.
Date of Test: ________
Time of Test: ________
FOR THE URODYNAMIC TEST APPOINTMENT, PLEASE MAKE EVERY ATTEMPT
TO COME TO THE CLINIC WITH A FULL BLADDER.
(Updated: 5/16/07)