Urodynamics

Urinary incontinence is caused by a loss of bladder control, and a urodynamic study is a test performed to figure out the cause of urinary incontinence by measuring how parts of the urinary tract are functioning. Specifically, urodynamic tests study how the bladder, sphincters, and urethra store and release urine, focusing on the bladder’s ability to hold urine and empty steadily and completely. In addition, urodynamic studies can show whether the bladder is having involuntary contractions that cause urine leakage.

Dr. Rao may recommend a urodynamic study if you’re experiencing some of the following symptoms:

• Frequent urination
• Painful urination
• Leakage of urine
• Sudden and strong urges to urinate
• Problems completely emptying the bladder
• Problems beginning a urinary stream
• Recurring urinary tract infections

To prepare for the urodynamic study, we will ask that you arrive at Clear Lake Women’s Center with a full bladder. You will be asked to urinate into a container, and we’ll measure the volume of urine and the rate that your bladder empties.

Next, Dr. Rao will insert a catheter through the urethra into your bladder to measure the volume of urine remaining in your bladder. We may fill your bladder with water through the catheter until you feel like urinating, at which point we’ll measure the amount of water in your bladder. Finally, we will insert more water until you absolutely must urinate to see how much liquid your bladder is able to hold.

Based on the results of your urodynamic study, Dr. Rao will discuss the best treatment options for you and refer you to a specialized physician or surgeon if necessary.

You may require treatment if we find that more than the normal amount of fluid remains in your bladder after you urinate; your bladder contains less or more fluid than normal when you first feel like urinating; and/or you aren’t able to retain fluid in your bladder at the normal amount.