A urine culture is a test that checks for bacteria or yeast in urine. It is used to diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs) and to identify the type of bacteria or yeast causing the infection. This information helps the doctor to treat the infection.
Differences between a urine culture test and urinalysis-
- Urine analysis and urine culture require a urine sample. The doctor may ask first to do a urinalysis. This rapid test detects the presence of red and white blood cells and bacteria to indicate infection.
- Urinalysis does not identify the bacteria causing the urinary infection. To confirm this, a urinalysis culture is required.
Why Should You Do a Urine Culture Test?
The doctor suggests a urine culture test if someone shows the following symptoms:
- Painful urination or burning sensation
- Frequent urge to urinate but being unable to empty the bladder
- A common urge to urinate, even if you have just left and there is not a lot of urine evacuated.
- Cloudy, strong-smelling urine
- Lower back pain
- If someone just recovered from a urinary tract infection, the doctor should check for a risk of recurrence
- People with diabetes
- People with Kidney illness, such as kidney stones
Urine sampling methods:
- Catheterization: In this method, a catheter which is a flexible and thin tube is inserted in the urethra to reach the bladder. The present urine in the bladder flows out of the catheter and gets collected into a sterile collection bag.
- Aspiration: With this method, the skin of the abdomen is numb so that a fine needle can be inserted into your bladder. A numb needle is used for the collection of urine from a bag.
- U bag or urine bag: This method of collecting urine is used for toddlers and infants.
Results:
- Positive: Indicates that there is a high chance of developing a urinary tract infection.
- Negative: Indicates that there is no sign of infection or bacteria proliferation. This is a sign of progress or typical results. However, the doctor may recommend additional tests to support the diagnosis.
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