A voiding cystourethrogram is an x-ray examination of the bladder and urethra that is performed while the bladder is emptying.

This test is commonly done to diagnose the cause of urinary tract infections, particularly in those who have repeated infections. It is also used to diagnose and evaluate:

• Abnormal bladder emptying
• Present at birth (congenital) problems with the bladder or urethra
• Urethral stricture (in males)

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in a health care provider's office by an x-ray technician.

You will lie on your back on the x-ray table. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter will be gently inserted into the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body) and passed into the bladder.

Contrast dye flows through the catheter into the bladder. This dye helps the bladder show up better on x-ray images.

The x-rays are taken from various angles while the bladder is full of contrast dye. The catheter is removed so that you can urinate. Images are taken while you empty your bladder.

You must sign a consent form. You will be given a gown to wear.

Remove all jewelry before the test. Inform the health care provider if you are:

• Allergic to any medications
• Allergic to x-ray contrast material
• Pregnant

You may feel some discomfort when the catheter is placed and while your bladder is full.