Cystoscopy under local anesthesia

It is often performed with a flexible cystoscope. The gel reduces sensation, although you may still feel pressure, movement or an urge to urinate as the scope enters the bladder.

After cleaning the opening of the urethra, the clinician applies anesthetic gel and allows time for it to work. The thin scope passes along the urethra, and sterile fluid may be introduced to open the bladder gently so its lining can be inspected.

The clinician may use the examination to investigate urinary symptoms, monitor a known urinary condition or perform a small procedure. If a biopsy or more involved treatment is needed, a separate appointment with different anesthesia may be recommended.

Check your appointment instructions before changing food, fluids or medicines; local anesthetic alone may require different preparation from sedation or general anesthesia. Mention medicine allergies, blood thinners, pregnancy possibility and current symptoms such as fever, cloudy urine or pain when urinating.

Once home, mild stinging or urinary frequency may settle with time. Drink according to your clinician's advice, particularly if another health condition limits fluids. Use only recommended pain relief and follow any instructions about activity, test results or antibiotics.

Call the clinic if burning or bleeding is worsening instead of easing, or if urine becomes foul-smelling or cloudy. Fever, shaking chills, severe lower abdominal or side pain, inability to pass urine, heavy bleeding or clots should be assessed urgently.

You can ask what the clinician is looking for, whether any samples might be taken and when results will be available. If you are anxious or have previously found catheterization difficult, explain this beforehand and ask what comfort measures or anesthesia options are appropriate.