Urethral Sphincter (EMG)
The EMG (electromyogram) is a non-invasive test that records how your sphincter muscles work during bladder filling and voiding. The test is done at the same time as the uroflow test or the urodynamic test.
What is urethral sphincter muscle?
- The urethral sphincter muscle acts like a door to the bladder. When the bladder is pushing the pee out, the door needs to open, so urine can pass.
- The test will check if there is coordination or not between the urethral sphincter and the bladder.
When do you need to do the test?
- Your treating doctor may ask you to do the test if you have any of the following problems:
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination
- Sudden urge to urinate.
- Difficulty with urination
How an EMG Test is Done
Two electrodes (small stickers that help to measure muscle activity) are put on the buttocks close to the anal opening and one electrode is put on the knee.
Before the test (Preparation)
You may need to shave the area around the anus before the test.