A bladder ultrasound is a painless scan that shows the bladder wall, its contents and how well it empties after passing urine. At LPHG it costs £250 and needs no GP referral. It helps assess urinary symptoms, incomplete emptying and retention, with a written report issued after the scan.
What this scan shows
- The bladder wall and its thickness
- How well the bladder empties after passing urine
- Bladder stones or debris
- Signs of obstruction affecting the bladder
- The lower urinary tract in men and women
- Post-void residual urine volume
What it cannot show
- The inside lining of the bladder in detail, which a cystoscopy assesses
- Small tumours or subtle mucosal changes
- The upper urinary tract in full, which a renal scan covers
Our bladder ultrasound is a painless scan that assesses the bladder wall, its contents and how well it empties after passing urine.
It helps investigate urinary symptoms, incomplete emptying and retention, with a written report issued after the scan in the Harley Street Medical District.
Book your bladder ultrasound
Report within 24 hours. No GP referral needed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for a bladder ultrasound?
No. You can book the scan directly. If it shows something that needs onward care, our urologist can advise on the next steps.
Why do I need a full bladder?
A full bladder gives the clearest images and allows the sonographer to measure how well it empties afterwards. Please drink water beforehand and avoid emptying your bladder.
Does the scan hurt?
No. It is painless. A sonographer applies gel to the lower abdomen and moves a probe over it. You will pass urine partway through so emptying can be measured.
Is a bladder ultrasound the same as a cystoscopy?
No. An ultrasound looks at the bladder from outside, while a cystoscopy uses a small camera to view the lining directly. The two tests are complementary.
When will I get my results?
A written report is issued after the scan. If anything needs onward care, our urologist can advise on the next steps.