What is a urine culture? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is urine culture?
It is a lab test to check the bacteria or other germs in the urine sample.
Also Read: UTI
Why is it done?
- It is used to diagnose UTI and what kind of germs are causing it. It is necessary if you are suffering from repetitive UTIs
- It is used to culture the microorganisms in the urine sample in a suitable growth medium. This culture shows the presence of UTI-causing microbes in the urinary tract. This test is positive if the microbes are present.
- Sensitivity testing.
What is the average range for a urine culture test?
[su_table]
| Reference range | Interpretation |
| >100,000 colonies/ ml | Positive |
| 10,000 – 100,000 colonies/ ml | Indeterminate |
| <10,000 colonies/ ml | Negative |
[/su_table]
The average range for urine culture is between 10,000 – 100,000 colonies/mL. If the colonies are beyond 1000,000 it indicates an infection in the urinary tract.
Why do I need this test?
You should perform this test if you are having the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, then the doctor might recommend this urine culture test.
The most common symptoms of UTIs are:
- Pain and discomfort in the abdominal area
- Pain while urinating
- Burning sensation during micturition
- Frequent urge to pass urine
- Fever
- Cloudy, strong-smelling urine
- Tiredness
Risk factors for frequent UTIs may include:
- Diabetes
- Frequent sexual intercourse
- Kidney diseases, including kidney stone
- Weakened immune system
What does a positive urine culture mean?
The bacteria grow in the culture, and the urine culture result is positive. It means you have symptoms of a urinary infection or bladder irritation. Urinary tract infections are mostly caused by E. coli bacteria. Other bacteria and yeast infections can also cause a urinary infection.
What does a negative urine culture mean?
It means that there is no evidence of infection or any bacterial growth.
