Having a flow test
Date issued: July 2026
For review: July 2028
Leaflet section: Gynaecology
PDF: Having a flow test [pdf] 140KB
Urogynaecology
The purpose of this appointment is to check for bladder emptying ONLY. Any other bladder issues will be discussed in a follow-up appointment if necessary.
What is a flow test?
This test records the rate at which you pass urine and the amount you pass. It is carried out to assess the changes you have experienced in your usual flow of urine. To record this information, you will be asked to pass urine into a special machine, within a private room.
What is a bladder scan
After your flow rate test, it will be necessary to scan your abdomen to determine whether you have emptied your bladder fully or retained some urine. This is a painless procedure. A small amount of gel is put on your abdomen and an ultrasound probe is used to obtain a picture of your bladder onto a screen. Any residual urine is shown on the screen and the volume is calculated.
Are there any risks involved?
There are no side effects to either of these tests and you can resume your normal activities immediately afterwards.
On the day of the procedure
Please eat and drink as normal before your appointment.
When you arrive do not pass urine until you have seen the nurse
Please be prepared that you may need to stay for a few hours.
You will be scanned prior to going to the toilet and if your bladder isn’t full enough then you will be asked to wait in the waiting area until you are ready to void. Please be mindful that there are other patients in for the same test and we only have one specialist toilet available at a time.
**Arriving at the department with a full bladder will reduce your waiting time, although if you experience problems such as frequency or urgency, we understand it may be difficult for you to travel with a full bladder. **
What happens after the procedure?
After your flow rate test and bladder scan, the results will be reviewed to see if any subsequent follow-up treatment or tests are needed. If so, then further appointments will be booked for you.
Any questions please contact the Urogynaecology team on 01752 432628 opt 2, opt 3, opt 7 between 8:30am and 4pm.
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
