A quick, non-invasive check
Uroflow is the simplest of the urology diagnostic tests. You void into a machine that measures your urinary stream — no catheters, no anesthesia, no discomfort. The test itself takes about 30 seconds, with no aftereffects.
Understanding uroflow
Uroflow is a non-invasive measurement of the strength of your urinary stream. You arrive with a full bladder and are asked to void into a specialized machine that measures both the amount of urine voided and the flow rate. The data gives your provider valuable insight into how well your bladder empties and whether anything is interfering with normal urination.
Arrive with a full bladder
For a meaningful flow measurement, you must arrive with a full bladder ready to void. This is the one key piece of preparation — there’s nothing else you need to do beforehand. Eat normally, take medications as usual, and drink enough water so your bladder is comfortably full at appointment time.
The essentials
Non-invasive
No catheter, no scope, no anesthesia — you simply void into a machine
~30 seconds
Total appointment runs 15–20 minutes including ultrasound
Full bladder
Arrive ready to void — the only prep needed
No aftereffects
Resume normal activity immediately afterward
Plus post-void residual ultrasound
Uroflow is usually followed by a quick, non-invasive ultrasound to measure post-void residual — that is, how much urine remains in the bladder after you’ve voided. Combined with the flow measurement, this gives a complete picture of bladder emptying. The ultrasound is also painless and adds only a few minutes to your visit.
When uroflow is recommended
Uroflow is often a first-line test because it’s non-invasive, quick, and provides immediate insight into bladder function.
BPH Evaluation
A weak urinary stream is a primary sign of an enlarged prostate causing obstruction
Learn more →Male Voiding Issues
Distinguishes between obstructive and non-obstructive causes of urinary symptoms
Learn more →OAB Workup
Part of the standard evaluation for overactive bladder and urinary urgency
Learn more →Recurrent UTIs
Helps identify incomplete bladder emptying, a common contributor to recurring UTIs
Learn more →What to expect
The simplest urology test we offer. Here’s what happens.
Arrive with full bladder
Ready to void — the only preparation needed.
Private voiding
You void into the measurement device in private.
Post-void ultrasound
A quick non-invasive ultrasound measures what remains.
Go home
Resume normal activities immediately. No aftereffects.
There are no aftereffects
Because uroflow is entirely non-invasive, there are no aftereffects to worry about. No burning, no bleeding, no urgency. You can drive yourself home and return to your normal day immediately.
Schedule your uroflow.
If your provider has recommended uroflow, schedule an appointment with our urology team. It’s one of the simplest tests in urology — and provides valuable answers about bladder function.