Urine Flow Test
A urine flow test is a non-invasive outpatient test that calculates the speed of urine flow over time. It’s used to check several aspects of bladder function and diagnose the underlying causes of bladder issues.
What is a urine flow test?
A urine flow test is a non-invasive outpatient test that calculates the speed of urine flow over time. The test also helps estimate the bladder’s capacity before emptying, and the volume of any urine left after urination.
During normal urination, the bladder will empty slowly at first, and then a sharp rise in the speed of emptying is observed, leading to almost complete emptying of the bladder. A urine flow test is used to diagnose any condition that might affect the relationship between the bladder's storage and emptying.
You may be advised to have a urine flow test if you have:
a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
a high frequency of urination
an urgent need to urinate
poor urine flow
Urine flow tests are a useful tool to diagnose bladder conditions in both men and women, and can be used in the diagnosis of:
benign prostatic hyperplasia
neuropathic bladder
urethral stenosis
detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia
bladder atonia
Urine flow tests are carried out by our expert urologists in our state-of-the-art Urology centre. Our team will provide you with the best possible care during the procedure and discuss your results and any next steps straight away.
More information
When you arrive at Welbeck for your test, your consultant will explain what’s involved with the procedure. You’ll be offered a drink in our comfortable waiting area and will be taken to a flow room when you are ready to pass urine.
During the procedure:
the machine will be switched on and calibrated
you'll be asked to pass urine into a device called a flowmeter – this replicates a toilet funnel, and is suitable for both men and women
you should try not to push or strain while emptying your bladder, and should stay as still as you can, so that the results are as accurate as possible
the flowmeter will record the speed of urine flow over time, and the amount of urine passed, alongside other information to help investigate your symptoms
when you’ve finished urinating, you can press the end button yourself, or ask a staff member to help
Following the urine flow test, you'll be taken to another room to have a bladder scan using an ultrasound to estimate the urine volume present after passing urine. A printed result will then be passed to your clinician.
The results are usually available immediately after the test is finished, and your consultant will be able to discuss them and any next steps with you. Sometimes, the test might have to be repeated if not enough urine is passed or if you feel that the test did not replicate your usual experience.
A urine flow test is a safe, non-invasive procedure and closely replicates usual urination, so there are no risks involved.
Usually, there’s nothing you need to do to prepare for your urine flow test. You’ll be asked to drink while waiting at the appointment so that your bladder is comfortably full.
If you struggle with constipation, are on any medication that could affect the bladder or prostate gland or are pregnant, you should talk to your consultant before arranging a urine flow test.
You’ll be able to go home and carry on with your normal activities straight after the test.
Please contact our Urology centre for pricing.
At Welbeck, our urologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.
With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
To book a urine flow test, you must be referred by either your GP or a urologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with a urologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.
Frequently asked questions
Don’t worry if you can’t urinate when asked during the test. This is a common problem. Usually, we’ll just ask you to wait until you feel the need to urinate. The test can also be rescheduled if needed.
There are many reasons why results may not be accurate, including too much fluid intake, constipation, movement during the test, and embarrassment during the test, which can reduce the flow rate. Our team will try to make sure your test is as accurate as possible the first time, but it may need to be repeated.
For the test to be accurate, your bladder needs to be comfortably full (not overfull). You should drink normally before the test, and you’ll be offered a drink in the waiting area when you arrive. You’ll be taken for the test once you feel the need to urinate.
Normally, your consultant will want to measure the flow in the way you usually urinate, so if this is standing, then you’ll be asked to stand. There may also be times when your consultant needs to measure the flow while you’re sitting. The position you need to be in for the test will be explained before you begin.