Cystoscopy for IC: What to Expect

Q: Why is cystoscopy used for IC?

Cystoscopy is used to rule out other bladder conditions, check the bladder lining, and identify Hunner’s lesions or inflammation that may indicate IC.

Q: Does cystoscopy hurt?

Most patients feel only mild discomfort or pressure. Sedation or anesthesia may be used to minimize pain during the procedure.

Q: How long is recovery after cystoscopy?

Recovery is usually quick. Burning or frequency may last 24–48 hours, and slight blood in urine may occur. Serious side effects are rare.

Q: Can cystoscopy confirm IC?

Cystoscopy alone cannot confirm IC. It can support the diagnosis, especially if Hunner’s lesions are present, but many IC patients have normal-looking bladders.

Sophia N.
Oct 5
3 min read

Medical room with examination table, equipment cart, and monitor. Sunlit neutral decor. Text reads "Cystoscopy for IC: What to Expect."

Introduction

If your doctor suspects Interstitial Cystitis (IC) or Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS), they may recommend a cystoscopy. Just hearing the word can feel intimidating, especially if you’re already dealing with pain and uncertainty.

I want to reassure you: cystoscopy is a common test, and while it can sound overwhelming, understanding what to expect can make the experience less stressful. In this guide, I’ll walk you through why cystoscopy is used, how it’s done, what it feels like, and what the results may show.

What is a Cystoscopy?

A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to look inside your bladder using a thin tube with a camera called a cystoscope.

Doctors use cystoscopy to:

Rule out other conditions (such as bladder cancer, stones, or strictures)
Check for changes in the bladder lining
Look for Hunner’s lesions (a type of ulcer linked to IC)
Sometimes perform additional procedures, like hydrodistension (stretching the bladder with water)

Types of Cystoscopy

There are two main types:

Flexible cystoscopy: A thin, bendable scope inserted under local anesthesia. Usually done in a doctor’s office.
Rigid cystoscopy: A slightly thicker scope, often performed under general or spinal anesthesia in a hospital setting.

👉 Most IC patients start with flexible cystoscopy because it’s less invasive.

What Happens During the Procedure

Diagram of male and female anatomy showing a cystoscope inserted into the urethra and bladder, labeled with prostate for male, on a white background.

Preparation: You’ll be asked to empty your bladder. Sometimes antibiotics are given to prevent infection.
Anesthesia: Local gel is applied for numbing; in some cases, sedation or general anesthesia is used.
Insertion: The cystoscope is gently inserted through the urethra into the bladder.
Inspection: The doctor examines the bladder lining for inflammation, Hunner’s lesions, or other changes.
Optional hydrodistension: The bladder may be filled with sterile fluid to stretch it and look for hidden abnormalities.

The procedure usually lasts 10–20 minutes (longer if hydrodistension is done).

What Does a Cystoscopy Feel Like?

Experiences vary:

With local anesthesia, you may feel pressure or mild discomfort.
With sedation, you may feel relaxed and remember little of the procedure.
With general anesthesia, you’ll be fully asleep.

Afterwards, it’s common to have:

Mild burning when urinating
Slight blood in urine for a day or two
Temporary urgency or frequency

These symptoms usually improve within 24–48 hours.

Caring for Yourself After a Cystoscopy

What You Can Do at Home to Recover Comfortably

A little self-care can go a long way in easing post-procedure discomfort. Here’s how to support your healing:

1. Stay hydrated.Drink plenty of plain water to flush your bladder and reduce irritation. Aim for small, frequent sips throughout the day.

2. Use heat therapy.A heating pad or warm compress on your lower abdomen can help soothe pressure or burning sensations.

3. Rest your body.Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for a day or two. Let your bladder settle.

4. Eat bladder-friendly foods.Stick with non-acidic, gentle foods like rice, oatmeal, chicken, and pears for a couple of days. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods while your bladder recovers.👉 See The Ultimate IC Food List for suggestions.

Woman relaxing on a beige sofa, wrapped in a knitted blanket. A steaming mug sits on the table. Bright, cozy room with a plant by the window.

5. Manage discomfort.Mild over-the-counter pain relief (as approved by your doctor) or a warm bath can help ease cramping or irritation.

6. Monitor your symptoms. It’s normal to have slight burning and pink urine for 24–48 hours. However, call your doctor if you experience:

Fever or chills
Persistent or worsening pain
Heavy bleeding
Signs of infection (cloudy urine, strong odor)

💙 Remember: recovery is usually quick, and most people feel back to normal within a few days.

Risks and Side Effects

Cystoscopy is generally safe, but possible risks include:

Urinary tract infection (UTI)
Temporary pain or bleeding
Rarely, bladder injury

If you develop fever, worsening pain, or heavy bleeding, call your doctor right away.

What Do Results Mean for IC?

In IC, cystoscopy may show:

Normal bladder (many IC patients have no visible changes)
Hunner’s lesions (ulcers strongly linked to IC)
Bladder wall inflammation
Reduced bladder capacity

👉 Even if your bladder looks normal, you can still have IC. Diagnosis is based on a combination of history, symptoms, and tests.

Final Thoughts

Cystoscopy can feel daunting, but it’s an important step in ruling out other conditions and confirming IC. Many patients find peace of mind once they understand what the test involves.

💙 Remember: you can always ask your doctor questions, request sedation if needed, and advocate for your comfort.

FAQs

Q1. Why is cystoscopy used for IC? To rule out other bladder conditions and sometimes identify Hunner’s lesions or inflammation linked to IC.

Q2. Does cystoscopy hurt? Most patients experience mild pressure or discomfort; anesthesia or sedation can make it easier.

Q3. How long is recovery after cystoscopy? Mild burning or urgency may last 1–2 days. Serious side effects are rare.

Q4. Can cystoscopy confirm IC?It can support the diagnosis, especially if Hunner’s lesions are found, but many IC patients have normal-looking bladders.