Uroflowmetry

Purpose
Preparation
Process
Results
What is uroflowmetry?
Doctors use uroflowmetry to test the amount of urine voided during
urination. It also measures the speed of urination. The test is called
a uroflow test. It can help your doctor identify the causes of certain
urinary difficulties.

Why is a uroflow test done?

Your doctor may recommend a uroflow test if you have slow
urination, a weak urine stream, or difficulty urinating. They may
also use it to test your sphincter muscle. The sphincter muscle is a
circular muscle that closes tightly around the bladder opening. It
helps to prevent urine leakage.

Results from the test can help your doctor determine how well your
bladder and sphincter are functioning. The test can also be used to
test for obstructions in the normal flow of urine. By measuring the
average and maximum rates of your urine flow, the test can
estimate the severity of any blockage or obstruction. It can also help
identify other urinary problems, such as a weakened bladder or an
enlarged prostate.

Certain conditions can affect your normal urine flow. These

conditions include:
benign prostatic hypertrophy, or enlargement of the prostate gland,
which can block the urethra completely
bladder cancer
prostate cancer
a urinary blockage
neurogenic bladder dysfunction, or trouble with the bladder due to
a nervous system problem such as spinal cord tumor or injury
Preparing for a uroflow test
You’ll need to give a urine sample. It may seem awkward or
uncomfortable, but you shouldn’t experience any physical
discomfort during the test.

Be sure to arrive at your doctor’s office with a full bladder. You

should drink plenty of liquids to make sure you have enough urine
for the test.

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or think you may be. You should
also tell your doctor about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and any
supplements you’re taking. Certain medications can interfere with
bladder function.

Uroflow test process

Unlike traditional urine tests in which you urinate into a cup, you’ll
need to urinate into a funnel-shaped device or a special toilet for
the uroflow test. It’s important that you don’t put any toilet tissue
on or in the toilet or device.

It’s best to urinate as you normally would, without attempting to

manipulate the speed or flow in any way. An electronic
uroflowmeter hooked up to the funnel or toilet measures the speed
and quantity of urination. You must not urinate until the machine
is turned on.

The uroflowmeter calculates the amount of urine you pass, the flow
rate in milliliters per second, and the length of time it takes to
empty your bladder completely. It will record this information on a
chart. During normal urination, your initial urine stream begins
slowly, speeds up, and then finally slows down again. The
uroflowmeter can record any differences from the norm to help your
doctor make a diagnosis.

When you’re finished urinating, the machine will report your

results. Your doctor will then discuss the findings with you.
Depending on your specific case, you may need to perform the urine
test on several consecutive days.

Understanding the results of your uroflow test

Your doctor will use the results to determine your peak flow rate, or
Qmax. Doctors generally use the peak flow rate, along with your
voiding pattern and urine volumes, to determine the severity of any
blockage or obstruction.

A decrease in urine flow may suggest you have weak bladder

muscles or a blockage in the urethra.

An increase in urine flow may suggest you have weakness in the

muscles that help control the flow of urine. This may also be a sign
of urinary incontinence.
After testing the flow of urine, your doctor will take your individual
situation and symptoms into account before they develop a
treatment plan. You may need additional urinary system testing.
You should discuss the results of your test with your doctor. They
can help you determine if treatment is necessary and what options
you have if you do need treatment. Talk to your doctor if you’re
experiencing any problems urinating. It could be the sign of a more
serious health condition.