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Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) in Children: What to Expect at Home

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Your Child's Recovery

Your child had a test that took pictures of the bladder and urethra.

Your child may need to urinate more often for several days after the test. He or she may also notice some burning during and after urination. This usually goes away after 1 or 2 days. Your child's urine may look pink for several days.

Your child needs no special care after this test. You can make sure that your child drinks lots of fluids to help relieve the burning and help prevent a urinary infection.

This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for your child to recover. But each child recovers at a different pace. Follow the steps below to help your child get better as quickly as possible.

How can you care for your child at home?

  • Your child can return to his or her normal activities right away.
  • Have your child drink plenty of fluids (unless your doctor tells you not to).

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child cannot urinate.
  • After 2 days, your child still has blood in his or her urine. It is normal for your child's urine to be pink for 1 or 2 days after the test.
  • Your child has symptoms of a urinary tract infection. For example:
    • Your child has blood or pus in the urine.
    • Your child has pain in the back just below the rib cage. This is called flank pain.
    • Your child has a fever, chills, or body aches.
    • It hurts when your child urinates.
    • Your child has groin or belly pain.

Watch closely for any changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if your child has any problems.

Where can you learn more?

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

Enter M917 in the search box to learn more about "Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) in Children: What to Expect at Home".

Current as of: November 15, 2023

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: November 15, 2023

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.