Cystoscopy terrified

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Hi all hope everyone is well so I'm having trouble thinking how bad a cystoscopy will be? nd what they may find?

My symptoms are a little blood in urine which is the main symptom of bladder cancer. I've had bloods done everything was fine I've had 4 lots of antibiotics which didn't clear it up so they have referred me for a cystoscopy can anyone tell me the experience and what to expect I'm sick with worry literally can't sleep eat and all I can dreaming about Is this cystoscopy I'm so drained.

  • It is painless, I found, they put gel on it to anesthesis it so you really do not feel it and it doesn't take very long. Well this was my experience anyway. Do not worry too much. I am sure lots of people on here will comment. 

  • Hi Casharna97, glad you've found us on this site since we are all reluctant cystoscopy experts! Many of us have had them every few months for years, and how ever experienced we are, we always worry about our results. The cystoscopy is a camera examination of the inside of your bladder and as you realise they will be checking for bladder cancer. It isn't the most comfortable experience but it really isn't very painful. I always watch the procedure on the screen above me and like the doctor I am searching for any signs of problems. I had one last Tuesday which luckily proved I had no evidence of cancer. Phew! But in 2017 I had my first cystoscopy and although I did have a tumour, here I am  5 years later enjoying a happy healthy life. My fingers are crossed for you. Keep us posted? Hx

  • Hello Casharna, The procedure is quick and relatively painless. I have been having flexible cystoscopies for over four years now. The consultant will apply a little gel, in my case inside the penis and insert a thin tube which contains the camera. You can watch the examination on the screen while you are lying there. The procedure literally takes two minutes. Good luck I hope the outcome is positive. Garviv

  • Hi Casharna97,It’s a really quick procedure only a few minutes.At my local hospital for a flexible cystoscopy you don’t even have to put on a gown.You undress from the waist downwards.They will put on some anaesthetic gel so it shouldn’t be painful.You can usually watch on a screen if you want to and if there is one in the room.Afterwards make sure you drink plenty to keep the bladder flushed out.Let us know how you get on.Love Jane xx

  • I echo the reassurances. It's a bit undignified & not especially pleasant, but the staff should put you at ease. They will probably point out what they are seeing, & may make some judgement as to what it is, but this may well just be the precursor to a closer look under general anaesthetic with a  larger scope. Lots of us have had that too. 

    Keep in mind that it's good that they are investigating to find the cause of the blood. If something is detected it can then be addressed - better that than going undetected & becoming a bigger problem. Hope all goes well.

  • I found the experience slightly uncomfortable but by no means painful.  The specialist engaged me in conversation throughout the procedure which proved a useful distraction.  You'll do fine.

  • Hi Casharna97

    Have you had your cystoscopy now?

    All the best, Tina X

  • Hey yes I did and then a ridged cystoscopy for biopsy had my results a few weeks ago and it's all good it's just INFLAMMATION I've never been so thankful in my life x

  • Hey yeah all was okay need a biopsy after but it all turned out to be inflammation which is amazing news I'm so thankful xxx