Uroflowmetry

Uroflowmetry is a diagnostic test that measures the amount of urine and rate of urine flow during urination. The test helps to diagnose the cause of slow urination or difficulty urinating. It is a non-invasive test to assess how well the urinary system functions.

A uroflowmetry test may be recommended to evaluate conditions that affect the normal urine flow. These include urinary blockage due to stones or tumours, prostate enlargement, weakness of the bladder and sphincter muscles, nerve injuries and frequent urinary tract infections.

Before the test you are instructed to avoid urinating for a few hours and drink plenty of fluids to fill your bladder. The test is performed by urinating into a funnel-shaped device connected to an electronic metre. Once the metre is turned on, you are instructed to urinate the way you normally would. Overstraining or altering the way you urinate may produce inaccurate results. The results are expressed as millilitres of urine per second. The average and peak flow rates are determined. Following the test, you may return to your regular activities.

A slow urine flow rate indicates blockage or poor bladder function. A fast urine flow rate usually indicates incontinence (inability to control urine) which may be due to weakness of the bladder muscles. Your doctor will review the test results along with your history and physical findings to arrive at a diagnosis and plan treatment.