Private Kidney, Renal & Bladder Ultrasound Scans in Birmingham
Book a Renal, Bladder and Kidney Scan in Birmingham
Our Sonographer
Advanced Sonographer
HCPC: RA34546
Our Charges
| Appointment Type | Pricing |
| Abdomen Scan (Male and Female) | £150.00 |
| Gynaecological (TA &TV) Scan (Female) | £175.00 |
| Renal, Bladder and Kidney Scan (Male and Female) | £150.00 |
| Abdomen and Renal, Bladder and Kidney Scan (Male and Female) | £250.00 |
| Abdomen and Pelvic Scan (Female) | £250.00 |
| Abdomen, Pelvic and Renal, Bladder and Kidney Scan (Female) | £300.00 |
Book a Scan with Sati
Specialist Private Renal and Bladder Ultrasound Scans for Men and Women
Private Renal and Bladder Ultrasound Scans for Men and Women
At Midlands Women’s Health, we provide private kidney, renal and bladder ultrasound scans in Birmingham for both male and female patients, offering detailed diagnostic imaging to assess the kidneys, urinary bladder and surrounding urinary tract structures.
Our ultrasound examinations are performed by an experienced, qualified Sonographer, providing high-quality diagnostic imaging in a comfortable, professional and supportive clinical environment.
Whether you are experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney pain, difficulty passing urine, blood in your urine or concerns about kidney stones, a renal and bladder ultrasound can provide valuable information to help investigate your symptoms and guide further medical assessment.
Using diagnostic ultrasound technology, we can assess the size, shape and appearance of both kidneys, examine the urinary bladder and identify certain structural abnormalities that may affect urinary tract health.
Our private ultrasound service is available to both men and women, providing personalised diagnostic imaging in Birmingham and the surrounding West Midlands.
What Is a Renal and Bladder Ultrasound Scan?
A renal and bladder ultrasound, sometimes called a kidney and urinary tract ultrasound, is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic examination that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the kidneys and urinary bladder.
The examination helps assess the structure and appearance of the urinary system and can identify certain abnormalities that may be contributing to urinary symptoms.
Unlike X-rays and CT scans, ultrasound does not use ionising radiation.
A renal and bladder ultrasound can help investigate:
- Kidney stones – identifying some stones within the kidneys.
- Kidney cysts – assessing fluid-filled structures within the kidneys.
- Hydronephrosis – swelling of the kidney caused by impaired urine drainage.
- Recurrent urinary tract infections – investigating possible underlying structural abnormalities.
- Bladder abnormalities – assessing bladder shape, wall appearance and certain visible abnormalities.
- Incomplete bladder emptying – measuring urine remaining in the bladder after urination.
- Urinary retention – investigating difficulty emptying the bladder.
- Kidney enlargement or structural changes – assessing kidney size and appearance.
- Suspected urinary tract obstruction – looking for signs of impaired urine drainage.
A kidney and bladder ultrasound is often used as part of a wider investigation into urinary symptoms or abnormal kidney-related blood and urine test results.previously identified abnormalities or investigate unexpected findings from blood tests.
What Does a Kidney and Bladder Ultrasound Examine?
Our Sonographer-led renal and bladder ultrasound assesses the main structures of the urinary system, depending on the clinical indication.
1. Right and Left Kidneys
Both kidneys are examined to assess their size, shape, position and internal appearance.
The scan may help identify:
- Kidney cysts.
- Some kidney stones.
- Kidney enlargement or shrinkage.
- Hydronephrosis.
- Certain kidney masses or lesions.
- Structural abnormalities.
- Changes in the appearance of the kidney tissue.
Kidney ultrasound may be particularly useful for patients experiencing flank pain, recurrent urinary infections or abnormal kidney function results.
2. Urinary Bladder
The urinary bladder is examined to assess its size, shape, filling and visible internal structures.
The scan may help identify:
- Bladder wall thickening.
- Bladder stones.
- Certain bladder masses or abnormalities.
- Bladder diverticula (outpouchings of the bladder wall).
- Urinary retention.
- Incomplete bladder emptying.
A comfortably full bladder is usually required to obtain clear ultrasound images.
3. Post-Void Residual Urine Measurement
A post-void residual (PVR) measurement assesses how much urine remains in your bladder after you have passed urine.
This can provide useful information for patients experiencing:
- Difficulty emptying the bladder.
- A sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
- Frequent urination.
- Recurrent urinary tract infections.
- Weak or interrupted urine flow.
- Urinary retention.
Where clinically indicated and included in the examination, your Sonographer will scan your bladder before and after you empty it to estimate the amount of urine remaining.
4. Urinary Tract and Signs of Obstruction
The examination may identify signs of urinary tract obstruction, including swelling of the kidneys caused by impaired urine drainage.
The ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, are not always visible during a routine ultrasound. However, some abnormalities, including dilatation, may be identified.
5. Prostate-Related Bladder Assessment in Men
For male patients experiencing urinary symptoms, a renal and bladder ultrasound may provide information about bladder emptying and changes potentially associated with an enlarged prostate.
Where specifically requested and within the agreed examination protocol, an abdominal ultrasound assessment of prostate size may also be possible.
A renal and bladder ultrasound does not replace a dedicated prostate assessment or exclude prostate cancer.
Who May Benefit from a Private Kidney and Bladder Ultrasound?
Our private renal and bladder ultrasound service is available to both men and women experiencing urinary symptoms or requiring further diagnostic investigation.
Common Reasons for Booking
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Kidney pain or discomfort in the back or sides.
- Blood in the urine (haematuria).
- Frequent urination.
- Difficulty passing urine.
- Feeling that the bladder does not empty completely.
- Suspected kidney stones.
- Recurrent bladder infections.
- Urinary urgency.
- Suspected urinary retention.
- Abnormal kidney function blood tests.
- Monitoring previously identified kidney cysts.
- Investigation of suspected urinary tract obstruction.
Important: Blood in the urine, particularly visible blood, should always be assessed by a healthcare professional. A normal ultrasound does not exclude all urinary tract conditions, including bladder cancer.art of a wider investigation.
What Is Included in Your Private Renal and Bladder Ultrasound Appointment?
At Midlands Women’s Health, our ultrasound service provides a thorough and professional assessment of the kidneys and urinary bladder.
Your appointment includes:
- Clinical History Review: Discussion of your symptoms, relevant medical history and reason for requesting the scan.
- Experienced Sonographer: Your examination is performed by a qualified Sonographer experienced in general diagnostic ultrasound imaging.
- Bilateral Kidney Ultrasound: Assessment of the right and left kidneys, including size, shape and internal appearance.
- Urinary Bladder Ultrasound: Assessment of bladder filling, wall appearance and visible abnormalities.
- Assessment for Kidney Stones and Cysts: Investigation of certain structural abnormalities that may be visible on ultrasound.
- Assessment for Hydronephrosis: Examination for swelling of the kidneys associated with impaired urine drainage.
- Post-Void Residual Measurement: Where clinically indicated and included in the scan protocol, assessment of urine remaining after bladder emptying.
- Diagnostic Ultrasound Images: Capture of relevant images to support the findings.
- Written Ultrasound Report: A diagnostic report documenting the examination findings.
- Recommendations for Further Assessment: Where appropriate, findings may indicate the need for additional investigations or specialist medical review.
The examination is tailored to the clinical indication and the structures that can be adequately visualised.
How to Prepare for Your Kidney and Bladder Ultrasound Scan
Preparation is important to help your Sonographer obtain clear images of the kidneys and urinary bladder.
A Full Bladder Is Usually Required
For a renal and bladder ultrasound, you will generally be asked to attend with a comfortably full bladder.
This helps your Sonographer assess the bladder wall, internal structures and bladder capacity.
Before your appointment:
- Drink approximately 1 litre of water around one hour before your scan, unless you have been advised to restrict your fluid intake.
- Avoid emptying your bladder immediately before the examination.
- Aim for a comfortably full bladder rather than one that is painfully full.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your abdomen and lower back.
- Continue your usual prescribed medication unless advised otherwise.
- Bring any relevant previous ultrasound reports, blood test results or referral information.
If you have kidney disease, heart failure, a fluid restriction or difficulty holding urine, please contact our team beforehand for individual preparation advice.
Do I Need to Fast Before a Renal and Bladder Ultrasound?
Fasting is not usually required for a routine kidney and bladder ultrasound.
You can generally eat and drink normally before your appointment, unless additional abdominal organs are being examined or you have been given specific instructions.
Will I Need to Empty My Bladder During the Appointment?
Will I Need to Empty My Bladder During the Appointment?
If a post-void residual measurement is required, you will be asked to empty your bladder during the appointment.
Your Sonographer will then repeat the bladder scan to measure the amount of urine remaining.
What Happens During a Renal and Bladder Ultrasound?
A kidney and bladder ultrasound is a straightforward, non-invasive examination.
Step 1 – Initial Consultation
Your Sonographer will discuss your symptoms, relevant medical history and reason for undergoing the examination.
Step 2 – Positioning
You will be asked to lie comfortably on an examination couch.
You may be asked to turn onto your side or adjust your position during the scan to allow clearer views of the kidneys.
Step 3 – Kidney Ultrasound
A clear, water-based gel is applied to your abdomen and sides.
Your Sonographer gently moves the ultrasound probe across the skin to obtain images of both kidneys.
Step 4 – Bladder Ultrasound
Your urinary bladder is examined while comfortably full to assess its appearance and identify any visible abnormalities.
Step 5 – Bladder Emptying Assessment
Where a post-void residual measurement is required, you will be asked to pass urine before a further bladder scan is performed.
Step 6 – Completion and Reporting
Once the examination is complete, the gel can be wiped away and you can normally return to your usual activities immediately.
A diagnostic ultrasound report will document the findings.
How Long Does a Kidney and Bladder Ultrasound Take?
A routine renal and bladder ultrasound generally takes approximately 20–30 minutes, although the duration may vary depending on the complexity of the examination.
If a post-void residual measurement is required, additional time may be needed to allow you to empty your bladder and complete the assessment.
What Happens After My Kidney and Bladder Ultrasound?
Following your examination, a written diagnostic ultrasound report will be prepared.
The report can support your GP or referring healthcare professional in determining whether further investigations or treatment are required.
Depending on the findings, additional assessment may include:
- Urine testing or urine culture.
- Kidney function blood tests.
- CT imaging where kidney stones or obstruction remain suspected.
- Specialist urology consultation.
- Further investigation of persistent urinary symptoms.
A normal ultrasound does not exclude all kidney, bladder or urinary tract conditions.
If you continue to experience symptoms, further clinical assessment may still be necessary.
Why Choose Midlands Women’s Health for Imaging?
Experienced Sonographer
Our ultrasound examinations are performed by a highly experienced Sonographer with over 20 years of clinical experience across the NHS and private healthcare, including general diagnostic imaging.
Ultrasound Services for Both Men and Women
Although Midlands Women’s Health is recognised for its specialist women’s health services, our renal and bladder ultrasound service is available to both male and female patients, providing accessible diagnostic imaging for a wide range of urinary health concerns.
Comprehensive Urinary Tract Imaging
We assess both kidneys and the urinary bladder, including structural abnormalities and signs of impaired urinary drainage.
Comfortable, Professional Environment
We understand that undergoing medical investigations can sometimes feel worrying. Our team provides a welcoming, respectful and reassuring environment throughout your appointment.
Personalised Patient Care
Every examination is tailored to the clinical indication, ensuring that relevant symptoms and medical history are considered.
Private Ultrasound Services in Birmingham
Midlands Women’s Health offers private diagnostic ultrasound services in Birmingham, supporting patients seeking timely investigation of kidney and bladder symptoms.
Helpful Websites & Support Resources
| Organisational Name | Link | Description |
| Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists | https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/ | Provides evidence-based information about gynaecological conditions and investigations, including the role of imaging in assessing symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fibroids, ovarian cysts, and fertility concerns. |
| NHS | https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ultrasound-scan/ | Trusted NHS information explaining how ultrasound scans work, what they are used for, how to prepare, and what patients can expect during the procedure. Pelvic ultrasound is commonly used to assess the womb, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures. |
| RadiologyInfo | https://www.radiologyinfo.org/ | Provides patient-friendly information about medical imaging tests, including pelvic ultrasound and MRI scans, explaining why they are performed, how they work, and what patients can expect. |
| Women’s Health Concern | https://www.womens-health-concern.org/ | Provides accessible, evidence-based information on women’s health conditions, symptoms, and investigations, helping patients understand common gynaecological problems and diagnostic pathways. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our kidney and bladder ultrasound service is available to both men and women. The examination assesses the kidneys and urinary bladder, regardless of sex.
Yes. The term renal refers to the kidneys. A renal ultrasound is a kidney ultrasound, although a renal and bladder examination additionally assesses the urinary bladde
Yes. Ultrasound can identify some kidney stones and signs of urinary obstruction. However, smaller stones or stones within the ureters may not be visible, and CT imaging may sometimes be required.
Ultrasound can identify certain structural changes associated with kidney disease, but it cannot diagnose or exclude every kidney condition. Blood and urine tests are often required to assess kidney function.
Yes. Ultrasound can identify some bladder abnormalities, including stones, wall thickening and incomplete bladder emptying. However, not all bladder conditions can be detected using ultrasound.
Ultrasound may identify certain bladder masses, but it cannot reliably detect or exclude bladder cancer. Further assessment, including cystoscopy, may be required where clinically indicated.
Yes. Ultrasound can help investigate possible structural abnormalities, kidney stones or incomplete bladder emptying that may contribute to recurrent urinary tract infections.
In men, ultrasound can assess bladder emptying and may identify changes associated with urinary obstruction. A prostate size assessment may also be possible if specifically included in the examination.
However, a routine renal and bladder scan is not a comprehensive prostate investigation.
A normal ultrasound does not exclude all urinary tract conditions. Persistent symptoms may require further investigation by your GP or a urology specialist.
Have Questions? Contact Us
Not sure which service is right for you?
Our friendly team at Midlands Women’s Health, a private health clinic in Birmingham, is here to help
Get in Touch With Us
Address
Kat and Co, 20 Calthorpe Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1RP
Phone
We provide fast, confidential, and patient-centered care to women across Birmingham and the Midlands
Let us help you take the next step towards better pelvic health, personalised gynaecology care, and improved quality of life.