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Urinary incontinence


Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

  • Urinalysis
  • Urine culture to check for infection if indicated
  • Cystoscopy (inspection of the inside of the bladder)
  • Urodynamic studies (tests to measure pressure and urine flow)
  • Uroflow (to measure pattern of urine flow)
  • Post void residual (PVR) to measure amount of urine left after urination
Other tests may be performed to rule out pelvic weakness as the cause of the incontinence. One such test is called the Q-tip test. This test involves measurement of the change in the angle of the urethra when it is at rest and when it is straining. An angle change of greater than 30 degrees often indicates significant weakness of the muscles and tendons that support the bladder.
References:


American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary incontinence in women. Obstet Gynecol. 2005; 105(6): 1533-1545.

Madersbacher H, Madersbacher S. Men's bladder health: urinary incontinence in the elderly (Part I). J Mens Health Gend. 2005; 2(1): 31-37.

Kielb SJ. Stress incontinence: alternatives to surgery. Int J Fertil Womens Med. 2005; 50(1): 24-29.




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