Uroflowmetry is a test that measures the volume of urine released (excreted) from the body, the speed with which it is excreted, and how long the excretion takes.
Uroflow
You will urinate in a special urinal or toilet with a machine that has a measuring device.
You will be asked to begin urinating after the machine has started. When you finish, the machine will create a report for your health care provider.
Your health care provider may ask you to temporarily stop taking medications that can affect the test results.
Uroflowmetry is best done when you have a full bladder. Do not urinate for 2 hours before the test. Drink extra fluids so you will have plenty of urine for the test.
Do not place any toilet tissue in the test machine.
The test involves normal urination, so you should not experience any discomfort.
This test is useful in evaluating the function of the urinary tract.
Normal values vary depending on age and sex:
Results are compared with your symptoms and physical exam. A result that may need treatment in one patient may not need treatment in another patient.
Several circular muscles normally regulate urine flow. If any of these muscles becomes weak or stops working, you may have an increase in urine flow or urinary incontinence.
If there is a bladder outlet obstruction or if the bladder muscle is weak, you may have a decrease in urine flow.
Your health care provider should explain and discuss any abnormal results with you.
There are no risks with this test.
Review Date: 9/7/2008
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright ©2010 A.D.A.M., Inc., as modified by University of California San Francisco. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Information developed by A.D.A.M., Inc. regarding tests and test results may not directly correspond with information provided by UCSF Medical Center. Please discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.
