At A Glance

Price:

From £1300 (includes follow-up appointment)

Expected Results:

Diagnosis and monitoring of bladder / urethral conditions

Length of Surgery:

Up to 30 minutes

Anaesthesia:

Local Anaesthetic Gel

Recovery:

Same Day

What is this?

Flexible cystoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra.

A thin, flexible tube with a camera and light (called a cystoscope) is gently inserted through the urethra, allowing your urologist to investigate urinary symptoms or monitor ongoing conditions. This outpatient procedure is generally well tolerated and does not require general anaesthesia.

At The Day Clinic, our experienced urology specialists use flexible cystoscopy to deliver accurate assessments in a comfortable, professional environment. It’s a quick, effective method for identifying issues and guiding treatment plans.

Flexible cystoscopy can help with:

  • Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Blood in urine (haematuria)
  • Frequent or urgent urination
  • Unexplained bladder pain
  • Monitoring bladder tumours or strictures

The Consultation

Consultation

Before undergoing a flexible cystoscopy at The Day Clinic, all patients receive a thorough consultation with one of our expert urologists. This appointment allows us to review your medical history, assess your current symptoms, and determine if the procedure is appropriate for you.

During the consultation, your consultant will explain the process in detail, answer any questions, and discuss what the cystoscopy may reveal. We prioritise ensuring you feel informed, comfortable, and confident about moving forward.

Your urologist will also review any recent test results, such as urine analysis or imaging, which help provide a complete understanding of your urinary health. If flexible cystoscopy is agreed upon, you’ll receive guidance on how to prepare and what to expect on the day of your procedure.

The Procedure

Procedure

On the day of your flexible cystoscopy at The Day Clinic, our friendly clinical team will welcome you and guide you through every step. After ensuring you’re comfortable, a local anaesthetic gel is applied to numb the urethra and minimise any discomfort.

The flexible cystoscope is then carefully inserted into the urethra and advanced into the bladder. The attached camera relays images to a monitor, allowing the urologist to assess the bladder lining, urethra, and surrounding structures in real-time.

The procedure typically lasts 10-15 minutes. Most patients report only mild sensations of pressure or urge to urinate during the process. Once complete, you can relax briefly before heading home. Flexible cystoscopy at The Day Clinic is performed with your dignity, comfort, and privacy in mind at all times.

Aftercare & Results

Aftercare

Following your flexible cystoscopy, you can return home shortly afterwards. Most people experience only mild side effects such as temporary burning during urination or a small amount of blood in the urine, both of which typically resolve within 24-48 hours.

You’ll be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the bladder and reduce any minor irritation. Our urology team will provide personalised aftercare advice to ensure a smooth recovery.

Your consultant will discuss the findings either immediately after the procedure or at a follow-up appointment, depending on the case. Any necessary treatment or further investigations will be clearly outlined.

At our private medical centre in Cambridge, we pride ourselves on delivering quick, reliable results and expert guidance following every flexible cystoscopy.

What our clients think

Potential Risks

Flexible cystoscopy is a low-risk procedure, especially when performed by experienced professionals like those at The Day Clinic in Cambridge. However, as with any medical intervention, certain risks are possible.

These may include:

  • Temporary discomfort or burning during urination
  • Small amounts of blood in the urine
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)
  • Injury to the urethra or bladder – very uncommon

Our urology team is here to promptly manage any concerns that arise, ensuring your safety and wellbeing at all stages of care.

Related FAQs

Will I need someone to accompany me home after the procedure?

Flexible cystoscopy is usually performed under local anaesthetic, so most patients can travel home unaccompanied.

Can I eat and drink normally before my appointment?

There are typically no restrictions on eating or drinking before flexible cystoscopy.

Is flexible cystoscopy painful?

Most people experience only mild discomfort or a sensation of needing to urinate, rather than pain.

How soon can I return to work or normal activities?

You can usually resume normal activities, including work, the same day or the next, unless advised otherwise.

Will I receive my results on the same day?

In many cases, your urologist will provide immediate feedback; however, if tissue samples are taken, these results may take a few days.

The Day Clinic - Newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter

The Day Clinic