Effect of Music on Pain, Embarrassment, and Urodynamic Outcomes During Urodynamic Testing: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Int Neurourol J. 2026 Mar 6. doi: 10.5213/inj.2550262.131. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effect of music on pain, embarrassment, and urodynamic outcomes during invasive urodynamic testing.

METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, 100 patients scheduled for urodynamic testing at a university hospital between February 2024 and June 2025 were randomized into a music group (n=50) and a control group (n=50). After exclusions due to incomplete forms, 90 patients (45 in each group) were analyzed. The intervention group listened to slow-tempo instrumental classical music (40-60 decibel) during the procedure, while the control group received standard care. Pain and embarrassment were measured at three time points (uroflowmetry, sitting on the table, and catheter insertion) using a visual analogue scale. Urodynamic parameters, including maximum flow rate, detrusor pressure at maximum flow, bladder capacity, voiding phase volume, and post-void residual volume, were recorded.

RESULTS: Patients in the music group reported significantly lower pain during uroflowmetry (p=0.041) and catheter insertion (p=0.022) compared with the control group. No significant differences were found between groups in embarrassment levels or urodynamic parameters ( p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Music significantly reduced pain during invasive UDT, particularly at the most invasive stages, but did not affect embarrassment or urodynamic outcomes. Music represents a simple, safe, and cost-effective nursing intervention to improve patient comfort during urodynamic testing.

PMID:41785842 | DOI:10.5213/inj.2550262.131