A cystoscopy is a common medical procedure urologists use to examine the lining of the bladder and the urethra. This is accomplished by inserting a thin, lighted tube called a cystoscope through the urethra and into the bladder. While the procedure itself is often performed with a numbing gel or sedation, it is very common to experience discomfort afterward as the tissues recover. This post-procedure pain, which can include burning during urination, urgency, and mild lower abdominal ache, is typically temporary. This article provides actionable strategies to effectively manage this expected discomfort during your recovery.
Understanding Expected Discomfort
The most frequent symptoms following a cystoscopy are a burning sensation during urination and a frequent or urgent need to urinate. This discomfort occurs because the passage of the cystoscope causes temporary irritation and swelling in the delicate lining of the urethra and bladder. You may also notice that your urine appears pink or slightly blood-tinged for a day or two, which is usually due to minor bleeding from the procedure.
These mild symptoms are considered normal and generally begin to improve within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Mild lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort may also be present as the bladder tissues recover from the slight stretching that occurs when the bladder is filled with fluid during the examination. It is important to view these symptoms as a transient response to the procedure, distinct from more serious issues. The recovery period is typically short, with most people able to resume their usual activities within one to two days.
Immediate At-Home Relief Strategies
One of the most effective and immediate steps to alleviate post-cystoscopy discomfort is to significantly increase fluid intake. Drinking large amounts of water or other clear, non-caffeinated fluids helps flush your system and dilute the urine. This dilution reduces the concentration of irritants passing over the irritated walls of the urethra, minimizing the stinging or burning sensation during urination.
Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid daily for the first few days, unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Temporarily altering your diet can also help soothe the bladder. It is beneficial to avoid common bladder irritants such as coffee, tea, alcohol, carbonated drinks, and acidic beverages like citrus juices. These substances can exacerbate bladder lining irritation, potentially prolonging discomfort.
Applying gentle heat can help relax the muscles and ease any cramping or spasms in the lower abdomen. A warm bath or a heating pad placed over the lower belly provides soothing comfort. When using a heating pad, ensure it is set to a warm, not hot, temperature and place a towel between the pad and your skin to prevent burns. Resting when fatigued during the first 24 hours supports the body’s natural healing process.
Pharmacological Pain Management
For general pain and discomfort, over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics are usually the first line of defense. Acetaminophen, often taken every six hours, is effective for managing pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may also be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the dosage instructions from your healthcare provider and avoid exceeding the maximum daily dose, especially for acetaminophen, which can be an ingredient in many combination pain medications.
A specific medication often used for urinary tract irritation is phenazopyridine, sold under various brand names. This medication acts as a local anesthetic, directly targeting the lining of the urethra and bladder to relieve symptoms like burning, urgency, and pain. Studies have shown that phenazopyridine can effectively reduce pain intensity following a cystoscopy.
If your physician prescribes this medication, be aware that it causes a harmless, but very noticeable, side effect: it turns the urine a bright orange or reddish-orange color. This intense coloration can also stain clothing, so caution is advised. For more severe bladder spasms or pain not sufficiently addressed by OTC options, your physician may prescribe a stronger, short-term analgesic or an antispasmodic medication.
Recognizing Signs of Complications
While some discomfort is expected, certain symptoms indicate a complication and require immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, or if you experience shaking chills. These symptoms may signal a developing urinary tract infection, a potential complication.
Another serious concern is the inability to urinate, known as acute urinary retention. If you feel the need to urinate but cannot pass any urine, especially if accompanied by severe pain or abdominal swelling, seek emergency care immediately. Pain that significantly worsens after the first 48 hours, or pain not relieved by recommended medication, should also be reported to your doctor.
Persistent or heavy bleeding is also a red flag. While light pink urine is common, passing large blood clots or bright red blood that does not subside after the first day requires a call to your medical team. Having your doctor’s contact information readily available can prevent delays in seeking help if any serious symptoms occur.