Urethroscopy: What Is It? Procedure, Benefits, and What to Expect

Urethroscopy is a simple medical test used in urology. During this exam, a doctor looks inside your urethra and sometimes your bladder. The urethroscopy procedure helps find problems in the urinary tract. Because it is quick and safe, many doctors use it to check bladder health and diagnose urinary issues. If you need a urethroscopy, knowing what to expect can help you feel more at ease.

What Is Urethroscopy?

Urethroscopy is a test that lets a doctor see inside your urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine out of your body. Sometimes, the doctor may also look into your bladder. To do this, a thin tube with a camera, called a urethroscope, is gently inserted. This tool sends images to a screen, so the doctor can check for any problems. Because the test is direct, it gives clear answers about your urinary tract health.

Why Is Urethroscopy Performed?

Doctors use urethroscopy for many reasons. Often, it helps find the cause of symptoms like pain or trouble urinating. In addition, it can spot infections or injuries. Here are some common reasons for a urethroscopy:

Checking for blockages or narrowing in the urethra

Finding the cause of blood in urine

Diagnosing repeated urinary tract infections

Looking for tumors or growths

Examining injuries after accidents

Because it is a direct exam, urethroscopy helps doctors plan the best treatment for you.

How Is Urethroscopy Done? (Procedure Steps)

Knowing the urethroscopy procedure can help you feel calm. Usually, the test takes less than 30 minutes. Here are the main steps:

First, you will lie down on an exam table.

Next, the doctor cleans the area around your urethra.

Then, a numbing gel is applied to reduce discomfort.

After that, the doctor gently inserts the urethroscope.

The doctor looks at the images on a screen and checks for any problems.

Finally, the urethroscope is removed, and you can rest for a few minutes.

Because the test is quick, you can usually go home the same day.

Benefits and Risks of Urethroscopy

Urethroscopy offers many benefits. For example, it gives a clear view of the urinary tract. This helps doctors find problems early. Here are some key benefits:

Quick and simple test

Helps diagnose urinary problems

Guides treatment choices

Usually done without surgery

However, like any test, there are some risks. Most people have no problems, but you may notice:

Mild burning or discomfort when urinating

Small amount of blood in urine

Rarely, infection or injury

Because doctors follow safety steps, serious risks are rare.

How to Prepare for Urethroscopy

Good preparation can make the urethroscopy procedure smoother. Your doctor will give you clear instructions. Here are some common steps to follow:

Tell your doctor about any medicines you take

Let your doctor know if you have allergies

Arrive with a full bladder if asked

Arrange for someone to drive you home if needed

Follow any special instructions from your doctor

Because each person is different, always ask your doctor if you have questions about urethroscopy preparation.

What to Expect After the Procedure

After urethroscopy, you may feel mild discomfort. For example, you might notice a burning feeling when you urinate. This usually goes away in a day or two. Sometimes, you may see a small amount of blood in your urine. Drinking plenty of water can help. If you have pain, fever, or heavy bleeding, call your doctor right away. Most people return to normal activities quickly. Because the test is safe, recovery is usually fast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is urethroscopy painful? Most people feel only mild discomfort. The numbing gel helps reduce pain.

How long does the urethroscopy procedure take? The test usually takes less than 30 minutes.

Can I go home after the test? Yes, you can go home the same day in most cases.

Are there any side effects? You may notice mild burning or a small amount of blood in your urine. These effects are usually brief.

When should I call my doctor? If you have fever, severe pain, or heavy bleeding, contact your doctor right away.

For more details, you can visit trusted sources like the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

If you have questions about urethroscopy or need advice, consult a urologist for personalized care.