Cystoscopy anxiety

Dear Dr. My wife and I are trying to have our second child with no success. After going to my MD he told me to got to an endocrinologist. My wife's Dr. told us that I needed to see a Urologist. My MD had my blood tested and found that my testosterone levels are at 340. Now I wait for hormone test results.
At my wife's insistance I went to the Urologist and have had 1 blood test, 1 urine test and an IVP. This was due to microscopic blood in my urine. No cancers were detected or stones and now the Urologist has me scheduled for a Cystoscopy. This proceedure frightens the heck out of me. I read about it at various internet sites and do not feel sure about it. My wife laughs at me - she could be right. Generally I have faith in the medical practice but I have a serious concern with the proceedure and possible damage. The Dr.'s nurse told me that there are no imaging or non invasive techniques available as the Dr. must see the interior walls of my bladder. Im overweight and do not have a large penis. I cannot help but think that there will be some stretching damage to the urethra.
Is my concern valid? Is there anything I should request of my Dr. before we proceed?
Thank you, PM in FL.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

A cystoscopy may a slightly uncomfortable, but now it's pretty routine procedure.  It would certainly be recommended as it is one of the more comprehensive tests to evaluate the urinary tract.  Before any procedure, you have to ensure that all your questions are appropriately answered.

Here is a website that explains what to expect during a cystoscopy:
http://www.urologyhealth.org/adult/index.cfm?cat=05&topic=277

Typically, there should be no permanent damage (i.e. stretching damage) to the urethra.  

If there continues to be anxiety before the procedure, you may want to discuss with your PCP about possible medication to help calm the anxiety.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[Mike5034]

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[PM in FL]

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[Lilpuu]

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[Lilpuu]

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[d.b.]

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