What happens during the test?
To avoid contaminating the sample, it's important to wash and dry your hands before beginning the test. Cleaning the genital area with antiseptic towelettes (or warm soapy water followed by a thorough rinse) further reduces the chance of contamination.
One method of collecting a urine sample for testing is the "clean-catch" method. Once you are ready, begin urinating and after a few seconds, collect the sample in the container provided. Make sure that the rim of the container does not touch your genital area, the toilet, or any other surfaces. Fill the container. When you are finished, seal the sample container with the lid. Wash your hands and place the sample in the collection bin or leave it with the laboratory technician or nurse.
Sometimes, the doctor needs to check certain characteristics of the urine your body is producing. Since the kidneys produce urine, a possible reason for requesting this test is to monitor kidney function. First, you need to empty your bladder, and then drink a large amount of water. After about half an hour, you collect the sample using the method above, wash your hands and place the sample in the collection bin or leave it with the laboratory technician or nurse.
If further testing is required, you may be asked to collect all of your urine over a 24-hour period in a special container.
How should I prepare for this test?
You may need to make some changes to your normal routine to make sure the test results are accurate. Avoid certain foods such as blackberries, beets, and rhubarb, which may change the color of urine. Avoid vigorous exercise before the test. Discuss with your doctor all medications you are taking as some may affect the color of the urine or the test results (e.g., diuretics, iron, rifampin, phenazopyridine, phenytoin, vitamin B supplements, high doses of vitamin C, and certain antibiotics).
Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any medication allergies and medical conditions you may have.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you need to stop taking any of your medications before the test.
Women who are menstruating should tell the doctor. It may affect the test results if blood enters the urine sample.
What can I expect after the test?
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after collecting the urine sample.
Results
Interpreting results requires analysis of the color, clarity, odor, pH, protein content, glucose (sugar) levels, presence of bacteria, and the presence or absence of certain chemicals or cells in the urine. This analysis is usually done in a laboratory and a report is sent to your doctor with the results.
Some results may be available almost immediately after the test, while others may require more time. Ask your doctor when your test results should be available.