Quick read
Key points
- 1
Cystoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to look inside the bladder and urethra using a thin, flexible or rigid instrument with a camera (cystoscope). It's used to investigate symptoms like blood in the urine, recurrent urinary infections, or urinary difficulties, and can sometimes be used to treat certain conditions found during the procedure.
- 2
Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
- 3
You develop a fever after the procedure
01 · Know
What is Cystoscopy?
Cystoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to look inside the bladder and urethra using a thin, flexible or rigid instrument with a camera (cystoscope). It's used to investigate symptoms like blood in the urine, recurrent urinary infections, or urinary difficulties, and can sometimes be used to treat certain conditions found during the procedure.
It's usually performed under local anaesthetic as an outpatient procedure, though sometimes general anaesthetic is used, particularly if treatment is planned during the same visit. Most people can go home the same day and resume normal activities quickly.
02 · Understand
Clinical context
Mild discomfort afterward is common and usually brief
It's common to experience mild discomfort or a burning sensation when urinating for a day or two after cystoscopy, which usually settles on its own without needing treatment.
03 · Act
When to Contact Your Care Team Afterward
- 1You develop a fever after the procedure
- 2You notice heavy bleeding or blood clots in your urine
- 3You're unable to urinate after the procedure
- 4Discomfort is severe or not improving after a couple of days
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
Some Mild Bleeding Is Normal, But Report Anything Heavy
A small amount of blood in the urine after cystoscopy is common and usually resolves quickly — heavy bleeding or clots should be reported to your care team promptly.
- 1Drink plenty of water after the procedure.This helps flush the bladder and can ease mild discomfort.
- 2Take paracetamol if needed for discomfort.Mild discomfort after the procedure is common and usually settles within a day or two.
- 3Watch for signs of infection.Fever, worsening pain, or feeling unwell should be reported to your care team.
- 4Follow any specific aftercare advice given.This may include guidance on activity or when to expect results if a biopsy was taken.
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Cystoscopy is a common, generally well-tolerated procedure that provides valuable information about bladder and urethra health.
Mild discomfort afterward is normal, but heavy bleeding or fever should be reported to your care team promptly.