A cystoscopy is usually a safe procedure and serious complications are rare. Occasionally, there may be problems passing urine or an infection may develop.
Swollen urethra
A swollen urethra is the most common complication of a cystoscopy, and it can make it difficult to pass urine. The urethra is the tube through which urine is passed from the bladder, out of your body when you urinate. However, the swelling should pass within a few days.
If you're unable to pass urine for more than eight hours after having a cystoscopy, you should contact hospital staff.
Damage to the urethra is slightly more common after a procedure where a rigid cystoscope needed to be used instead of a flexible cystoscope. You may need to have a catheter (thin tube) inserted through your urethra for a few hours afterwards to drain your bladder.
Urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are another common complication of a cystoscopy. This is an infection of your urethra, bladder or kidneys. Symptoms of a UTI can include:
- a burning sensation when urinating that lasts longer than two days
- a high temperature (fever) of 38ºC (100.4ºF) or above
- unpleasant smelling urine
- nausea
- vomiting
- pain in your lower back or side
Contact your GP or hospital staff as soon as possible if you have any of the above symptoms. Most UTIs can be successfully treated with antibiotics.
