Post-Void Residual Urine Test

Overview

The post-void residual (PVR) urine test measures the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination.

The test is used to help evaluate:

  • Incontinence (accidental release of urine) in women and men.
  • Urination problems.
  • An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH).

The amount of leftover (residual) urine can be measured by draining the bladder with a thin flexible tube (catheter) or by using ultrasound.

Credits

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.

Health Information Library