Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG): What to Expect at Home
Your Recovery
You had a test that took pictures of your bladder and other parts of your urinary system.
You may need to urinate more often for several days after the test. You may also notice some burning during and after urination. This usually goes away after 1 or 2 days. Your urine may look pink for several days.
You need no special care after this test. You can drink lots of fluids to help relieve the burning and help prevent a urinary tract infection.
This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace. Follow the steps below to feel better as quickly as possible.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- You may go back to your normal routine right away.
- Drink plenty of fluids (unless your doctor tells you not to).
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You cannot urinate.
- After 2 days, you still have blood in your urine. It is normal for your urine to be pink for 1 or 2 days after the test.
- You have symptoms of a urinary tract infection. For example:
- You have blood or pus in the urine.
- You have pain in your back just below your rib cage. This is called flank pain.
- You have a fever, chills, or body aches.
- It hurts when you urinate.
- You have groin or belly pain.
- You are not feeling better day by day.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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Current as of: November 15, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
