Hello Frances , sorry you find yourself here . The test you describe is to look into your bladder with a flexible cystoscope . You will be asked to provide a urine sample ( to check for infection) You will be asked to take off your underwear , lay on a bed where they will drape you in a sterile cloth . They will then clean down below , use some local anaesthetic gel and put the scope in . It takes two to three minutes to do and you will be able to watch it on the screen if you wish . They will tell you then and there if there are any abnormalities . I hope that all is clear for you x

Hello and thank you for your post,

I am sorry to learn of your situation. Waiting for tests and test results can be a stressful and anxious time.

If your GP suspects that you may have bladder cancer as LCR has posted you may be offered a cystoscopy first to look at the bladder.

Or you may be seen by a urologist who specialises in bladder and kidney problems to discuss your symptoms first to work out what tests are needed.

It is difficult to be specific how long if it will be before you know your diagnosis, it will depend on what tests you have and whether or not biopsies are needed. Your team at the hospital should be able to give you more of an idea. You may find it helpful to read our information on the cancer waiting times on our website depending on where you live in the UK.

I hope this helps in some way and that you have friends and family you can lean on during this time. If you would like to speak with one of our nurses on the helpline you would be welcome to give us a call. We are available between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday and the freephone number to call is 0808 800 4040.

Please feel free to get back to us at any time

Take care,

Jemma