Urine culture
What this test measures
A urine culture grows any bacteria present in a urine sample and reports what grew, how much, and which antibiotics it is sensitive to.
Why doctors request it
Requested when a urine infection is suspected, in pregnancy, and when dipstick results are abnormal.
What commonly pushes it up
- A urine infection
- Contamination from the skin, which grows mixed organisms in small numbers
What commonly pushes it down
- No growth is the usual finding
Everyday reasons for a value outside the range
- Mixed growth usually means contamination rather than infection
- Bacteria without symptoms are common in older people and are usually left alone
About the sample
A clean mid-stream sample, sent quickly or refrigerated.
Upload a photo or PDF and see every line against the range your lab printed, explained in plain English. First report free.
Read my report freeThis is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.