Urodynamics Testing Melbourne
Urodynamic studies are a series of tests that measure how well the bladder, sphincters, and urethra store and release urine. These tests are essential for understanding the underlying cause of urinary symptoms that cannot be determined from history and examination alone. Urodynamics provides objective measurements of bladder pressure, capacity, sensation, and voiding efficiency, helping to guide treatment decisions.
Written and clinically reviewed by Dr Brendan Dias
Consultant Urologist & Robotic Surgeon · MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DrNB (Urology), IntFRCS (England), FUSANZ, FRACS (Urology)
Last clinically reviewed: 26 August 2026
Benefits
- Objective assessment of bladder function
- Identifies the specific cause of urinary symptoms
- Essential for planning complex incontinence surgery
- Distinguishes between different types of incontinence
- Detects bladder outlet obstruction
- Helps avoid inappropriate treatments by providing accurate diagnosis
The Procedure
The test takes approximately 30-45 minutes. After emptying your bladder, small catheters are placed in the bladder and rectum to measure pressures. The bladder is slowly filled with sterile water while pressures and your sensations are recorded. You will be asked to cough and strain at various points. Once full, you will void into a special toilet that measures your urine flow while pressures continue to be recorded. Additional tests may include electromyography (EMG) to assess pelvic floor muscle activity and video urodynamics (fluoroscopy) to visualise bladder anatomy.
Who Is a Candidate?
Urodynamic studies are recommended for complex or mixed incontinence, incontinence not responding to initial treatment, before incontinence surgery to confirm diagnosis, neurological conditions affecting bladder function (spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease), recurrent urinary retention, suspected bladder outlet obstruction in women, and failed previous incontinence surgery.
Recovery
There is no recovery period - you can return to normal activities immediately. You may experience mild discomfort or burning when passing urine for 24 hours. Drink plenty of fluids to flush the system. A small amount of blood in the urine is normal. Contact the clinic if you develop fever, severe pain, or inability to pass urine, as these may indicate urinary tract infection.
Risks & Considerations
Urodynamic studies are very safe. The main risk is urinary tract infection, occurring in approximately 2-5% of cases. Some patients experience temporary discomfort during catheter insertion or bladder filling. Rarely, patients may have difficulty voiding immediately after the test.