Vcug (Voiding Cystourethrogram)

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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A VCUG is an x-ray of your bladder and urethra while you urinate.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Before your procedure:

• Informed consent is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.
• An IV is a small tube placed in your vein that is used to give you medicine or liquids.

During your procedure:

You will lie down on a table and an x-ray will be taken before the procedure. Your healthcare provider will lubricate and gently insert a catheter into your bladder. Contrast liquid will be put through the catheter into your bladder so it shows up clearly on the monitor. X-rays will be taken at different angles while your bladder is full of contrast liquid. The catheter will be removed so you can urinate. More x-rays will be taken while you urinate and once your bladder is completely empty.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

After your procedure:

You will be able to go home.

RISKS:

You may bleed or get an infection. You may have some discomfort when you urinate after the procedure. Your bladder may be injured during the procedure.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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