What investigations are needed for incontinence?

Home What investigations are needed for incontinence?

Understand your leaks through urodynamic assessment

What tests are needed to understand urinary incontinence? Urological assessment, voiding diary, tests tailored to your symptoms. Dr. Peyrat, urologist in Paris.

Why perform investigations in cases of incontinence?

Urinary incontinence can have various causes, and each type requires specific management.
To best tailor treatment, it is essential to understand the exact cause of urinary leakage through targeted investigations.

What are the objectives of the explorations?

  • Identify the type of incontinence (stress, overactive bladder, mixed, etc.),
  • Assess the function of the bladder and urethra,
  • Determine the severity of the disorder,
  • Investigate possible associated causes (infections, anatomical abnormalities),
  • Choosing the most suitable treatment for each patient.

What tests can be carried out?

  • A precise record of symptoms, their duration, and their impact.
  • Examination of the perineum and assessment of the pelvic floor muscles,
  • Simple tests such as the cough maneuver to check for leaks.
  • Urine analysis to rule out infection,
  • Measurement of post-void residual (amount of urine remaining in the bladder after urination).
  • Collection of urine quantities and episodes of leakage over several days,
  • It allows for a better understanding of urinary habits.
  • Visualization of the bladder, kidneys, and pelvic organs,
  • Search for abnormalities or urinary retention.
  • Endoscopic examination of the bladder and urethra,
  • Used in cases of suspected lesions, tumors or anatomical abnormalities.
  • In-depth functional study of the bladder and urethra,
  • Measurement of bladder pressures and volumes,
  • It allows for the objective assessment of involuntary contractions or urethral closure defects.
  • Especially indicated in complex cases or before surgery.

How is urodynamic exploration performed?

  • Performed under consultation and supervision,
  • Insertion of small catheters into the bladder and rectum,
  • Gradual bladder filling with measurement of pressures and sensations,
  • Exercise-induced urinary incontinence test
  • Variable duration, generally 30 to 60 minutes.

Why consult Dr. Laurence Peyrat for these examinations?

  • Recognized expertise in functional urology,
  • Modern equipment for conducting examinations safely.
  • Precise analysis of results for a reliable diagnosis.
  • Personalized advice and comprehensive care for your incontinence.

My review in video

This video explains in simple terms what to investigate in cases of urinary incontinence . We will walk through the typical patient journey, the essential tests to identify the source of the problem, and how I approach each case to offer a solution tailored to each situation.

Do you suffer from incontinence?

Don’t let this problem impact your well-being and self-confidence.

Paris 8th – Paris Opera Urology Center & Turin Clinic

Consultations by appointment and via teleconsultation

Your needs

What investigations are needed for incontinence?

My review in video

My review in video

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Why perform investigations before treating incontinence?

Because treatment depends on the mechanism of the leakage: stress urinary incontinence, urgency, or a combination of both. A precise assessment avoids inappropriate treatments and allows us to offer the most effective solution for your situation from the outset.

What does urodynamic testing consist of?

It measures bladder and sphincter function using fine sensors: bladder filling, pressures, stream force, and retention capacity. The examination lasts approximately 30 minutes, is performed in a consultation setting, and is not painful—just slightly uncomfortable.

What other tests can be carried out?

Depending on the case: 3-day voiding diary, uroflowmetry, post-void residual measurement by ultrasound, urine culture, pad test to quantify leaks, and cystoscopy if a bladder abnormality is suspected.

Is urodynamic testing routinely performed before surgery?

It is recommended before incontinence surgery in cases of doubt about the mechanism, mixed symptoms, failure of previous surgery, or neurological pathology. In typical and pure cases, it is not always essential.

Dr Laurence Peyrat's expertise

Chirurgienne Urologue à Paris

Dr Laurence Peyrat

What investigations are needed for incontinence?: there are solutions.