October 28
Each of us is different in how we experience "things". It is important to recognize that there are two kinds of cystoscopes used in an office setting for "looking around".
There is the "Flexible Cystoscope, newer models that are thinner than older ones, and
the "Rigid Cystoscope" of days gone by, that I have only met at my local rural health clinic.
The Rigid gets lots of complaints. I'd rather drive the extra 4 hours to the big city clinic with newer scopes that try the rigid again. There have been a couple of pain problems noted with the flexible, but mostly comments of brief discomfort.
Some docs and staff seem to think that the numbing gel works instantly (it does not), and the doc is usually in a hurry. The gel seems works better after it is in place for about 5 minutes.
Discuss - ahead of time - with the doc, WHAT hurts - is it the whole procedure, or just getting past the prostate ? Did the doc encounter a false passage, scar tissue or other obstruction ? What does the doc recommend?
Let your care team know of your pain and concern, and find out what is recommended. they sould be able to ease the process. Keeping you comfortable is part of medical procedures.
Best,
Jack