The Cystoscopy Procedure

It takes only a few minutes, longer if a biopsy, x-ray, or treatment needs to be done.

Getting Ready

To help prepare for the procedure, do the following:

• Stop taking any medications as instructed.
• Plan for the appointment to take 30 to 60 minutes.
• If the procedure is being done in the hospital, ask whether you should avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight before the procedure
• Follow any other instructions the doctor gives you.

During the Procedure

• You lie on an exam table on your back, with your knees bent and legs apart. You are covered with a drape.
• Your urethra and the area around it is washed.
• Anesthetic jelly may be applied to numb the urethra. Other pain medication is usually not necessary. In some cases, you may be offered a mild sedative to help you relax.
• The cystoscope is inserted. A sterile fluid is put into the bladder to expand it. You may feel pressure from this fluid.
• If a biopsy or minor treatment is needed, it can be done through the cystoscope. Your doctor can discuss this with you before beginning.
• When the procedure is done, the cystoscope is removed.

After the Procedure

• You can go home when the procedure is done. If you had IV sedation, have someone drive you home.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• You may have burning or light bleeding when and urinate. This is normal.
• Call your doctor if you have: heavy bleeding or blood clots, burning that lasts more than a day, fever over 101° F, or trouble urinating.