Urodynamic Testing in Columbus, OH

Urodynamic tests measure bladder function and efficiency. Urodynamics refers to a group of tests that are performed to examine the bladder’s ability to empty steadily and completely. This group of testing can also evaluate abnormal bladder contractions, bladder storage, and the flow of urine. These tests focus on the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder, the urethra, and the sphincter muscles. The patient’s provider will order the tests if he or she suspects a problem in these areas.

Increasing age, chronic illnesses, injury, and pregnancy can cause problems in the urinary system. The bladder and urethral muscles become weaker with age, increased pressure, and decrease in estrogen. Weak muscles may cause problems in emptying the bladder completely or more commonly, urinary incontinence. Reasons for Urodynamic Testing may include:

• Frequent urination
• Involuntary release of urine, also called Incontinence (could be leaking urine with coughing, sneezing, laughing)
• Sudden, strong urges to urinate
• Problems starting a urine stream
• Painful urination
• Problems emptying your bladder completely
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• You are considering having surgery

• The patient will be instructed to arrive for testing with a full bladder
• She will provide a clean catch urine sample and then continue to void into toilet
• She will then be asked to undress from the waist down. Then, she will then lie back on an exam table with her feet in the stirrups, similar to a pap test. A speculum will not be used.
• A catheter will be used to perform a variety of tests, which may include a post-void residual, urethral retro-resistance pressure, a cystometrogram, and/or a leak point pressure. This will take about 20 minutes.

After the testing, the patient will be asked to return to the office in 1-2 weeks to discuss the results with her provider. Please make an appointment with your provider for more information.

How much does a urodynamic test cost?
Depending on your insurance and coverage, urodynamic testing can cost anywhere from $350 – $1,000. To get a better idea of the exact price, contact our office, and we can contact your insurance provider to determine the final out-of-pocket cost.

Is urodynamic testing painful?
While some patients may experience some discomfort due to the catheter, the test is generally considered to be very tolerable. Most patients do not characterize the procedure as being particularly painful and describe very little in terms of unpleasantness.

How long does it take to perform a urodynamic test?
In most cases, the test can be performed in its entirety in about 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into any lunch break or even the smallest window of availability. However, this can vary depending on a number of circumstances.

Urodynamic testing allows us to diagnose and address a number of underlying issues which may be affecting your normalcy of life. If you are ready to resolve and move forward from bladder issues today, contact our Columbus, OH office today. Professionals for Women's Health are ready to listen to and get to the bottom of all of your complaints.