A cystoscopy (also called a flexible cystoscopy) looks at the inside of the bladder. This is usually done under local anaesthetic. You are awake for the procedure.

The doctor or nurse gently passes a thin tube with a camera and light on the end (a cystoscope) through the urethra into the bladder. If there are any abnormal areas, they can use the cystoscope to take a small sample of cells (biopsy). The test should only take a few minutes.

You may have symptoms, such as a burning pain when passing urine, for a few days after the test. Speak to your doctor if your symptoms get worse or do not go away after a couple of days.