Bladder ultrasound with residual urine
bladder ultrasound · post-void residual · bladder scan before and after peeing
The doctor looks at your bladder with ultrasound, first when it is full, then right after you go to the toilet. This shows how much urine is left.
For frequent urges to pee, a weak stream, a feeling that the bladder is not empty, prostate problems, or frequent bladder infections.
⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 20 minutes, plus time to fill your bladder
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Water. Usually, 1 to 1.5 hours before the scan, drink 1 to 1.5 liters of still water or tea.
- Toilet. After that, do not go to the toilet. When you arrive, your bladder should feel full, but you can still hold it.
- If you can't wait. Tell the front desk. Sometimes they can take you sooner. You can also empty a little and drink more water.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past ultrasound reports
- A bottle of water
- A tissue to wipe off the gel
How it goes
- You lie on your back with your lower belly bare
- The doctor puts on gel and looks at your full bladder
- You are asked to go to the toilet and empty your bladder completely
- You come back right away, and the doctor looks at your bladder again
- The second look shows how much urine is left
What you'll feel
- The gel is cool
- The probe presses on your full bladder. You may feel the urge to pee, but it does not hurt
Afterwards
- The gel is wiped off, and you can go back to your day right away
- You usually get the report right away
Contact a doctor straight away if
- If you cannot pee at all and your lower belly feels swollen and painful, this needs urgent care. Call emergency services
Common questions
How much water should I drink before a bladder ultrasound?
Usually 1 to 1.5 liters over an hour to an hour and a half, without going to the toilet. Your clinic will tell you exactly.
How much residual urine is normal?
Usually very little. Your doctor will explain what your numbers mean, based on your symptoms and age.