Flexible Cystoscopy (Female) – What to Expect
When it comes to diagnosing and managing bladder problems in women, flexible cystoscopy is among the least invasive and most effective of the available tools. This simple procedure allows doctors to view the inside of the bladder and urethra using a slender, illuminated camera. Even though the idea of a camera in your bladder might be frightening, the process is usually fast, largely painless, and highly informative to both patients and healthcare professionals. Flexible cystoscopy is widely known and used in the UK to examine bladder issues, primarily in women, for its safety, low levels of discomfort, and real-time diagnostic approach. So whether you’re exhibiting symptoms or your GP has approved you for further testing, here’s everything you need to know about what to prepare for.
Why is a Flexible Cystoscopy Performed?
If women persist in presenting symptoms that require a closer inspection, the urologist usually proceeds with flexible cystoscopy. Depending on your circumstances, they may suggest it to you to:
- Investigate haematuria (blood in the urine)
- Test for and determine the causes of recurrent UTIs
- Check for the existence of bladder stones, polyps, or tumours
- Review continuing symptoms of bladder pain or incontinence.
Also, while the need to solve potential problems, this method can instantly do so. In the event of smaller stones or a need to acquire a biopsy, you’ll be provided the necessary intervention in a single session.
How Is a Flexible Cystoscopy Done?
You will be comfortably lying down while the procedure is carried out. Before inserting the tube, a local anaesthetic gel is applied to the area around your urethra so that you only feel minimal discomfort. The urologist will insert a small, thin, flexible telescope with a tiny camera through the urethra into your bladder. When necessary, a small amount of sterile water passes through its tube into the bladder for a more precise view. Internal photos taken are shown on a screen to allow the doctor to have a detailed look at the bladder lining. If deemed necessary, a sample of tissue might be obtained and small polyps removed during the same session. Remember, the procedure is not surgical, which means you won’t receive a cut or a scar.
How Long Does a Flexible Cystoscopy Take?
The procedure is rapid and straightforward, taking an estimated time of 5 to 10 minutes. Most women spend an average of 30 minutes in the facility, including preparation and recovery. However, sometimes, it may take a few more minutes if a biopsy or treatment is administered. It may sound longer to you, but several of our patients often say how swift and effortless they found it.
Is a Flexible Cystoscopy Painful?
No one enjoys pain, and it’s a genuine fear for many people. Although you may experience minimal stinging during the procedure’s insertion and water filling the bladder, the local anaesthetic gel reduces the sensation’s intensity. Generally, a common description provided by those who have previously undergone the procedure is that the procedure is uncomfortable rather than painful. Severe pain is infrequent; nonetheless, you do not need to panic because you will receive a sedative if you are too anxious and worried.
Flexible Cystoscopy Side Effects
As with any procedure, there may be a few side effects. For most women, these are usually temporary and may include:
- A slight burning when you urinate
- Mild blood in your urine, which should last a day or two
- An increased urge to urinate or even the frequency of the process
According to experts, severe pain, a lot of bleeding, and signs of infection such as cloudy urine or high fever are rare but warrant a visit to a doctor.
Recovery After a Flexible Cystoscopy
Most women resume regular activities quickly. For the first day, here are a few suggestions:
- Consume a lot of liquids to aid in bladder flushing
- Don’t engage in any intense activity within 24 hours
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen if you’re uncomfortable after the procedure, as explained by your provider.
In fact, most specialists report that the symptoms disappear within one day. And after, you may go about your regular business worry-free.
When to Seek Medical Help After the Procedure
On the other hand, although the side effects are only transient, there are circumstances when you feel so sick that you require the aid of a doctor:
- Severe bleeding or continuous blood in your urine
- Unable to urinate or experiencing severe abdominal pain
- Fever or chills, or signs of urinary infection
Fast medical help guarantees that any potential complications are taken care of in a timely and suitable way.
Conclusion
A flexible cystoscopy for women is an exceptional diagnostic method. This method is fast, safe, and extremely efficient in identifying a variety of bladder and urinary system diseases. Furthermore, it is not painful and there is no need for surgery, and the procedure can be done without anaesthesia. This creates extra reassurance, and in some circumstances, it is possible to conduct therapy while testing. A diagnosis should never be feared, and additional evidence only ensures better outcomes.
Have there been any doubts or concerns about the bladder state? If so, consult a specialist. Keeping silent and waiting is harmful to your health.
READ MORE:
- Cystoscopy on the NHS
- Recorded Webinar on Cystoscopy
