How you prepare

You might be asked to:

• Take antibiotics. Your doctor might prescribe antibiotics to take before and after cystoscopy, especially if you have trouble fighting off infections.
• Wait to empty your bladder. Your doctor might order a urine test before your cystoscopy. Wait to empty your bladder until you get to your appointment in case you need to give a urine sample.

Prepare for sedation or anesthesia

If you'll receive an intravenous (IV) sedative or general anesthetic during your cystoscopy, plan ahead for your recovery. You'll need to ask someone to drive you home.