Diagnostic Test
Post-Void Bladder Scan
A quick, completely painless ultrasound scan to measure any urine left in your bladder after you go to the toilet. This helps UK specialists investigate bladder emptying and prostate issues.
Key Takeaways
- A quick, completely painless ultrasound scan to measure any urine left in your bladder after you go to the toilet. This helps UK specialists investigate bladder emptying and prostate issues.
- We offer specialist interpretation and related treatments. Book a consultation to discuss your options.
Overview
About Post-Void Bladder Scan
A post-void bladder scan is a simple, quick, and non-invasive test that uses sound waves to check how well your bladder empties.
"Post-void" simply means "after peeing." Immediately after you empty your bladder in the toilet, a healthcare professional will use a small, portable ultrasound scanner to see if there is any urine left behind. Because it uses safe ultrasound waves rather than X-rays, it involves absolutely no radiation.
Test Information
Understanding Your Test
A detailed guide to your diagnostic procedure — from essential preparation and the purpose of the test to safety considerations and what to expect during the process.
The test is incredibly straightforward and takes less than a couple of minutes to complete.
First, you will be asked to go to the toilet to empty your bladder as completely as you normally would. Immediately afterwards, you will be taken to a private examination room and asked to lie down comfortably on your back on a clinical couch, rolling your clothing slightly down to expose your lower stomach.
The specialist will apply a small amount of clear, warm gel to your lower abdomen. They will then gently press a small, handheld scanning wand (an ultrasound probe) against your skin over your bladder area.The scanner automatically calculates the exact volume of remaining urine in seconds. Once done, the gel is wiped away, and you can get straight up and dressed.
The test is completely painless. The ultrasound gel might feel a bit wet or cool at first, but it is wiped off easily with a soft tissue immediately after the scan.
You will feel a light, gentle pressure as the handheld probe moves across your lower stomach, but it does not cause any discomfort. If your bladder is feeling tender due to a recent infection, just let your nurse or specialist know, and they will work exceptionally gently.
Your doctor or urology specialist will usually recommend this scan if you are experiencing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or find it difficult to go to the toilet.
It is the most efficient way to check if your bladder is doing its job properly or if you are dealing with "urinary retention" (where urine gets trapped inside). For men, it is routinely used alongside flow tests to see if an enlarged prostate is blocking the normal passage of urine. For women and men alike, it is an essential check for recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or issues like urinary leakage.
At a glance
Preparation required
- Arrive with a full bladder: You must arrive at the clinic feeling a comfortable urge to go to the toilet. Do not empty your bladder right before your appointment time, as the test relies entirely on you passing a normal amount of urine at the clinic first.
- Drink a few glasses of water in the hours leading up to your scan to ensure your bladder is sufficiently full.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to adjust around your lower stomach.
Risks or considerations
- There are zero physical risks or side effects – ultrasound imaging is completely safe for everyone.
- It is entirely non-invasive, meaning it replaces the old method of using a plastic tube (catheter) to check for leftover urine, keeping you completely comfortable and free from infection risks.
What it can help diagnose
- Urinary retention (incomplete emptying of the bladder)
- Bladder outlet obstruction, often caused by an enlarged prostate (BPH)
- Weakened bladder muscles that cannot pump out urine effectively
- Nerve-related bladder issues (neurogenic bladder) that alter how you pee
- Hidden factors contributing to frequent or chronic urinary infections (UTIs)
Our Commitment
Care you can trust
Every test is delivered to the same standard: senior consultants, a personalised plan, and the safety of an accredited private hospital behind you.
Consultant-Led Excellence
Receive evidence-based treatments delivered by senior NHS consultants in a professional, specialist setting.
Personalised Care Plans
Your consultant will design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your specific health goals and lifestyle.
Hospital-Grade Safety
We operate within leading private hospitals, adhering to strict CQC safety and technology standards.
A Heritage of Trust
Our partners bring decades of NHS and private experience, successfully managing thousands of patient cases.
Trusted Resources
Trusted Patient Resources
Patient Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this test and what to expect
3 questions
Generally, having less than 50ml to 100ml of urine left in your bladder after peeing is considered normal and shows good emptying.A reading consistently over 150ml to 200ml usually suggests that your bladder isn't emptying as efficiently as it should.
Reviewed 31 May 2026
Was this helpful?
The results of a bladder scan are instant. The machine calculates the fluid volume immediately, and your nurse or urologist can discuss the exact numbers with you before you leave the room.
Reviewed 31 May 2026
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Yes, absolutely.Because the test is non-invasive and does not require any numbing or sedation, there is zero down-time. You can drive yourself home and get right back to your normal daily routine immediately.
Reviewed 31 May 2026
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