Exams and Tests

An exam of the female genitalia and pelvis is usually required in diagnosing a prolapsed bladder. A bladder that has entered the vagina confirms the diagnosis.

For less obvious cases, the doctor may use a voiding cystourethrogram to help with the diagnosis. A voiding cystourethrogram is a series of x-ray films that are taken during urination. These x-ray films help the doctor determine the shape of the bladder and the cause of urinary difficulty. The doctor may also test or take x-ray films of different parts in the abdomen to rule out other possible causes of discomfort or urinary difficulty.

After diagnosis, the doctor may test the nerves, muscles, and the intensity of the urine stream to help decide what type of treatment is appropriate.

A test called urodynamics or video urodynamics may be performed at the doctor's discretion. These tests are sometimes referred to as EKGs of the bladder. Urodynamics measures pressure and volume relationships in the bladder and may be crucial in the decision making of the urologist.

Cystoscopy (looking into the bladder with a scope) may also be performed to identify treatment options. This test is an outpatient office procedure performed on a television screen so the person can see what the urologist sees. Cystoscopy has virtually no risk and is tolerable for the vast majority of people.