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 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 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 if you have any problems.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter C793 in the search box to learn more about "Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG): What to Expect at Home".

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.