Symptoms which may lead a doctor to perform a cystoscopy are related to diseases of the bladder or urethra. In general, a urologist may perform a cystoscopy when:
There are two types of cystoscopies which may be performed by a doctor:
A Vaginal Cyst is usually discovered during an annual visit to a gynaecologist. You may need further diagnosis to check whether it is benign.
You shall be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure. The doctor shall ask you to lie down with your feet up in stirrups. The doctor shall insert the cystoscope through the urethra using a lubricant. The inside of the bladder shall be numbed using an anaesthetic spray or gel. If the doctor is performing a biopsy or surgical procedure, more instruments may be passed using a bigger cystoscope. The doctor shall fill up the bladder using a sterile solution to get a clearer picture of the inside of the bladder. The entire process will take 15-30 minutes depending on the type and purpose of the cystoscopy.
A cystoscopy has become a routine procedure and serious complications which may occur are rare.
Some of the risks could be:
The doctor may give you antibiotics to prevent any bladder infections before a cystoscopy. You may also be asked to get a urine test done to check for infections. If a UTI is found, the doctor may delay the cystoscopy until you have recovered from it. There is no need to come with a full bladder as the doctor shall ask you to empty it.
These symptoms normally take 1-2 days to recover from after which you can resume normal activities. It is advised to have someone with you for the first 24 hours after a cystoscopy.
You can also take mild painkillers to reduce discomfort.
You should contact your doctor if
You may feel a little discomfort when the cystoscope is entered but there will be very little to no pain in the process as it is performed under anaesthesia. You should let the doctor know if you feel any pain in the process. You may feel the need to urinate but this will usually go away in a while.
You can resume normal activities after a flexible cystoscopy almost immediately. However, it will take 1-2 days to completely recover from a rigid cystoscopy.
You should not drive or drink alcohol till until 24 hours after a rigid cystoscopy.
1-2 days