Quick, Non-Invasive Bladder Function Screening for Foreign Patients

If you're experiencing a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, or the sensation of incomplete emptying, a urine flow test (요속 검사 – yosok geomsa), also known as uroflowmetry, may be the first step toward understanding the cause. This simple, non-invasive diagnostic test is widely used in Korea and is often performed during your first visit to a urology clinic. For foreigners, clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic offer professional uroflow testing with English-friendly service and rapid results—all in a discreet, patient-centered setting.

What Is a Urine Flow Test (Uroflowmetry)?

Uroflowmetry is a test that measures the volume, speed, and pattern of urine flow during a single urination. It’s used to assess bladder and urethral function and is a valuable tool in diagnosing various lower urinary tract issues.

What Does It Measure?

• Flow rate (ml/sec): How fast urine exits the body
• Total voided volume: The amount of urine released
• Voiding time: How long the entire urination takes
• Flow curve pattern: Helps identify obstruction, weak bladder, or irregular contractions

Who Should Get a Urine Flow Test?

Your doctor may recommend uroflowmetry if you have:

• Weak, slow, or interrupted urine stream
• Straining to urinate
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Urinary frequency, urgency, or nocturia (nighttime urination)
• Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in men
• Suspected bladder dysfunction or neurogenic bladder
• Evaluation before or after urinary tract surgery

It is commonly used as a screening tool or as part of a broader urodynamic workup.

How Is the Urine Flow Test Performed in Korea?

At clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic, the process is simple, private, and usually completed in less than 10 minutes:

1. Preparation:
   You’ll be asked to arrive with a comfortably full bladder. No anesthesia or special preparation is needed.
2. Private Testing Room:
   You’ll urinate into a special funnel or toilet connected to a computerized uroflowmeter. The machine records the speed and amount of urine flow in real time.
3. Optional Residual Scan:
   After voiding, an ultrasound may be performed to measure how much urine remains in the bladder (post-void residual volume).
4. Immediate Results:
   The doctor reviews the flow graph to assess whether your urination pattern is normal or suggestive of blockage, weak bladder, or muscle dysfunction.

Is the Test Painful or Invasive?

No. Uroflowmetry is completely non-invasive, painless, and does not involve any instruments entering the body. It simply requires natural urination in a private, clinic-controlled environment.

Why Choose Gangnam J Urology Clinic for Uroflowmetry?

• Same-Day Testing and Results: Ideal for patients with tight schedules or sudden symptoms
• Male and Female Expertise: Urologists are experienced in interpreting results for all types of urinary complaints
• Integrated Evaluation: Often paired with urinalysis, ultrasound, and consultation for full assessment
• English-Speaking Support: Available in most Gangnam-based clinics, making communication smooth for international patients
• Modern, Private Facilities: Testing rooms are designed for patient dignity and ease of use

Cost of Urine Flow Test in Korea

With NHIS Coverage:

• Uroflowmetry: ₩10,000 – ₩25,000
• Post-Void Residual Scan (if done): ₩10,000 – ₩20,000
• Consultation: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
  Total (with NHIS): ₩25,000 – ₩60,000+

Without NHIS (Out-of-Pocket):

• Uroflowmetry: ₩30,000 – ₩70,000
• Bladder Ultrasound: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
  Total (without NHIS): ₩130,000 – ₩270,000 depending on services

What Happens After the Test?

• The doctor will review your results with you immediately.
• Abnormal flow rates or patterns may prompt additional tests such as ultrasound, PSA (for men), cystoscopy, or full urodynamic testing.
• Treatment recommendations may include medications (e.g., alpha blockers), behavioral changes, or further diagnostic follow-up.

When to Consider a Urine Flow Test

You should ask your urologist about uroflowmetry if you:

• Struggle with urination or feel like your bladder doesn’t empty fully
• Have noticed a significant change in your urination habits
• Experience symptoms of prostate enlargement or bladder dysfunction
• Are preparing for, or recovering from, urinary or pelvic surgery



Uroflowmetry is a fast and powerful tool to assess bladder function and identify underlying issues. Whether you’re dealing with a weak stream, urinary retention, or chronic frequency, Gangnam J Urology Clinic offers prompt, private testing with real-time results—making it easier to get to the root of the problem. For foreigners in Korea, this is one of the most accessible and important steps toward effective, evidence-based urologic care.