Cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the lining of your bladder and the tube that carries urine out of your body. A hollow tube (cystoscope) equipped with a lens is inserted into your urethra and slowly advanced into your bladder.
A cystoscope is inserted into the urethra (the tube that carries pee out of the body) and passed into the bladder to allow a doctor or nurse to see inside. Small surgical instruments can also be passed down the cystoscope to treat some bladder problems at the same time.
People often worry that a cystoscopy will be painful, but it does not usually hurt. Tell your doctor or nurse if you feel any pain during it. It can be a bit uncomfortable and you may feel like you need to pee during the procedure, but this will only last a few minutes.
These symptoms should get better in 1 or 2 days. You will probably be able to go back to work or most of your usual activities in 1 or 2 days. This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace.
Avoid strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, until your doctor says it is okay. Ask your doctor when you can drive again. Most people are able to return to work within 1 or 2 days after the procedure. You may shower and take baths as usual.
