Urine Culture

Does this test have other names?

Urine culture and sensitivity, urine C&S

What is this test?

This test checks for bacteria in your urine that could be causing an infection in your urinary tract. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.

The results of a urine culture will help your health care provider find out what's causing your infection and determine the best way to treat it. Almost 90% of urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by E. coli bacteria. . Other types of bacteria, tuberculosis, and yeast infections can also cause a urinary tract infection.

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test if you have symptoms of a UTI. These include:

• Fever and chills.

• Burning pain when urinating.

• Pain in the back or lower belly.

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate.

• Cloudy or smelly urine.

What other tests might I have along with this test?

Your provider may also order a urinalysis. This is a urine test to check for other common conditions or diseases.. They may also order a blood test to look for signs of infection in your blood.

What do my test results mean?

Many things may affect your lab test results. These include the method each lab uses to do the test. Even if your test results are different from the normal value, you may not have a problem. To learn what the results mean for you, talk with your provider.

Urine culture results are given in colony forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL). A negative result means you don't have an infection. A higher bacterial count may mean infection.

How is this test done?

This test needs a "clean-catch" urine sample. To collect this type of sample:

• Carefully wash and dry your hands before removing the cap of the specimen container.

• Clean the area around the opening of your urethra with an antiseptic pad.

• Start urinating a small amount directly into the toilet, then stop the flow of urine.

• Hold the urine cup a few inches from your genitals or skin and fill the urine container about half full.

• Finish urinating into the toilet bowl.

• Don't let any part of the container touch your genitals or skin.

• Recap the container.

Does this test pose any risks?

This test poses no known risks.

What might affect my test results?

Taking antibiotics right before the test may affect your results.

How do I get ready for this test?

Drink enough water before the test so that you can urinate. Don't urinate at least 1 hour before the test. Tell your provider if you have taken antibiotic medicine recently. Be sure your provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use.