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LivingCare's urine flow rate testing at our Yorkshire clinics assesses male bladder function and diagnoses urinary problems. Our experienced urologists use advanced equipment to measure urination speed and volume.
A urine flow rate test is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the speed and volume of urine flow during urination, specifically for men. This simple, non-invasive test helps urologists assess how well your bladder empties and identify any obstructions or problems with urinary function.
According to Age UK, 1 in 3 men over the age of 65 in the UK have a bladder problem – and bladder problems might be a sign of an underlying prostate problem in men over 50. Early assessment through flow rate testing can identify issues before they impact quality of life.
At LivingCare, we offer flow rate testing at both our Leeds and Sheffield clinics, providing immediate results and expert interpretation. Our urologists will review your findings, explain their implications for your bladder health, and recommend any necessary treatment or further investigation as needed.
A flow rate test, also known as uroflowmetry, utilises a specialised device called a uroflowmeter to measure the rate of urine flow (in millilitres per second), total volume passed, time taken to urinate, and the pattern or shape of the flow curve when displayed on a graph.
You'll urinate into a special toilet or funnel connected to the uroflowmeter when you have a comfortably full bladder. As you urinate normally in private, the machine automatically records all relevant data. The uroflowmeter produces a graph showing how your flow rate changes during urination. In healthy bladder function, the flow rate rises quickly to a peak and then gradually decreases. A low peak flow rate with a flattened curve suggests obstruction, such as an enlarged prostate or urethral stricture. An intermittent flow pattern may indicate weak bladder muscles, whilst prolonged voiding time suggests bladder outlet obstruction.
Flow rate testing serves multiple diagnostic purposes. At LivingCare, we commonly use this test to investigate urinary symptoms, such as a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, and frequent urination, particularly at night.
It helps assess benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), identify urethral strictures, evaluate bladder muscle function, and gauges the severity of urinary obstructions.
Flow rate testing also monitors treatment effectiveness by measuring improvements after surgery or medication, tracks the progression of urinary conditions over time, evaluates bladder function in men with neurological conditions, screens for urinary problems during routine health checks, and investigates recurrent urinary tract infections related to incomplete bladder emptying.
Before Your Appointment
Attend with a comfortably full bladder – you need to feel a normal urge to urinate. Avoid urinating for 2-3 hours before your appointment, if possible, and drink fluids as usual. You can eat and drink normally with no fasting required. Continue taking all your regular medications unless you are specifically advised otherwise. Wear comfortable clothing that's easy to adjust.
During Your Appointment
You'll be shown to a private toilet area containing the uroflowmeter equipment. The healthcare professional will explain how it works. You'll urinate into the special funnel or toilet connected to the measuring device when ready. Urinate as you usually would – don't strain or force a stronger stream. The machine automatically records all measurements. The entire process takes just a few minutes.
After Your Appointment
You can return to all normal activities right away. Results are available immediately. Your urologist will review the results with you during the same appointment. If your flow rate is normal, no further action may be needed beyond reassurance. If the results show reduced flow or abnormal patterns, your urologist may recommend additional tests, such as a post-void residual measurement, prostate examination, PSA blood test, or bladder scan.
A flow rate test is completely safe with no risks or complications. The test is entirely non-invasive – you urinate normally into specialised measuring equipment. There's no discomfort, no recovery time needed, and no side effects. The only limitation is that test accuracy depends on having adequate urine volume (at least 150ml) and urinating naturally without straining.
There's no recovery period required. Resume all normal activities immediately, including driving, working, and exercising.
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Speak to our teamYou can receive this treatment at any one of the locations below.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps
Get in Touch
Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry. Let us know your preferred appointment type, either virtual or face to face, and we will work to find a time that suits you.
We Arrange Your Appointment
If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time, either virtually or in person, with one of our highly qualified consultants. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps
Get in Touch
Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry and we will work to find a time that suits you
We Arrange Your Appointment
If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time with highly qualified clinicians. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours with the option to upgrade to 24 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
You can receive this treatment from one of the consultants listed below.
Explore the various options available for this treatment.
With our self-pay service, there are no waiting lists - consultations are offered within 24 hours, with treatment within a week. All costs, including tests or scans, are quoted upfront with no obligation to proceed. Visit our Prices page for full details.
If using medical insurance, contact your provider to confirm coverage for all treatment stages before your first appointment. You’ll need a referral letter from your GP for a private procedure at The LivingCare Group. Once you have it, either you or your GP can book your first appointment with us.
