Risks

Complications of cystoscopy can include:

  • Infection. Rarely, cystoscopy can introduce germs into your urinary tract, causing an infection. Risk factors for developing a urinary tract infection after cystoscopy include advanced age, smoking and unusual anatomy in your urinary tract.
  • Bleeding. Cystoscopy might cause some blood in your urine. Serious bleeding occurs rarely.
  • Pain. After the procedure, you might experience abdominal pain and a burning sensation when you urinate. These symptoms are generally mild and gradually get better after the procedure.

Signs and symptoms of a serious complication

Call your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience:

  • An inability to urinate after cystoscopy
  • Bright red blood or heavy blood clots in your urine
  • Abdominal pain and nausea
  • Chills
  • A fever higher than 101.4 F (38.5 C)
  • Pain or burning during urination that lasts more than two days
Dec. 17, 2022
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  2. Partin AW, et al., eds. Principles of urologic endoscopy. In: Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Nov. 2, 2020.
  3. Fok CS, et al. Diagnostic cystourethroscopy for gynecologic conditions. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Nov. 2, 2020.
  4. Cystoscopy & ureteroscopy. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/cystoscopy-ureteroscopy. Accessed Nov. 2, 2020.
  5. AskMayoExpert. Cystoscopy. Mayo Clinic; 2019.
  6. Gleason JL. Cystoscopy and other urogynecologic procedures. Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinics of North America. 2013; doi:10.1016/j.ogc.2013.09.003.