| Name of Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Blood tests | Examines blood for levels of various chemicals |
| Cystoscopy | Looks for abnormalities in bladder and lower urinary tract. It works by inserting a small tube into the bladder[a] that has a telescope for the doctor to look through. |
| Postvoid residual (PVR) measurement | Measures how much urine is left in the bladder after urinating by placing a small soft tube into the bladder or by using ultrasound (sound waves). |
| Stress test | Looks for urine loss when stress is put on bladder muscles usually by coughing, lifting, or exercise. |
| Urinalysis | Examines urine for signs of infection, blood, or other abnormality. |
| Urodynamic testing | Examines bladder and urethral sphincter function (may involve inserting a small tube into the bladder; x-rays also can be used to see the bladder). |
[a] Because you may be uncomfortable during this part of the test, you may be given some medication to help relax you.
From: 2, Understanding Incontinence: A Patient's Guide
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