Urinalysis and urine culture

Category: Biopsies, Lab & Pathology Tests · All biopsies, lab & pathology tests

What it is

Urinalysis begins with a dipstick test — a chemically treated strip dipped in urine that changes colour to detect blood, protein, glucose, ketones, nitrites and white-cell markers. A urine culture (MSU — midstream urine) grows any bacteria present and tests which antibiotics work against them.

Why it is done

They investigate urinary symptoms (pain, frequency, urgency), check kidney disease (protein and blood), screen in pregnancy, and assess fevers without an obvious source, especially in children and older adults.

How to prepare

For a culture, a midstream sample is best: pass the first part into the toilet, collect the middle part in the sterile pot provided, then finish into the toilet — this reduces skin contamination. Your clinic gives instructions. Tell the team about recent antibiotics and, for women, if you are menstruating, as these affect interpretation.

What happens during the procedure

The dipstick takes two minutes in clinic. The sample then goes to the laboratory, where it is examined under the microscope and cultured on plates for 24 to 48 hours. Sensitivity results identify effective antibiotics.

Afterwards — recovery & results

You simply provide the sample; there is no recovery. Dipstick results are immediate; culture results usually take two to three days and your clinic will contact you if treatment needs to start or change.

Risks & considerations

There are no risks from the test itself. Contaminated samples are the main pitfall — they can suggest infection that is not really in the bladder, which is why collection technique matters.

Frequently asked questions

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