Urodynamic investigations are used to investigate bladder function and dysfunction in women with urinary symptoms, the most common being urinary incontinence. Guidance from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence covers much of when investigations should be performed. Women are often anxious and embarrassed when they attend the tests. Recognition of the artificial test conditions and the feelings of the woman are crucial to optimising the chances of reproducing symptoms. Before cystometry, written information explaining the test should be provided with the appointment letter or when the woman attends the clinic. The information should include instructions on providing a urine sample in a sterile container, bladder chart and questionnaires and advice to come with a comfortably full bladder. Women who are using drugs to treat lower urinary tract dysfunction should normally stop using the medication for an appropriate period of time before the investigation.