A urine culture is a laboratory test used to identify bacteria or other germs in a urine sample, primarily to detect and diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs)
. The test involves collecting a urine sample, which is then cultured and examined under a microscope to identify the presence of bacteria or yeast
. If bacteria are found, an antibiotic sensitivity test can be performed to determine the most effective antibiotic for treating the infection
. Urine culture tests are typically ordered if a person experiences symptoms of a UTI, such as frequent urge to urinate, pain or burning during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or lower back pain
. The test can also be used to diagnose some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), although urine culture is not the primary method for detecting STDs in adults
. The urine culture test is usually performed as a clean catch urine sample, where the person provides a urine sample without touching any skin or objects
. In some cases, a healthcare provider may use a catheter to collect the urine sample or, in rare cases, a needle and syringe to aspirate urine directly from the bladder
. The urine sample is then taken to a lab, where it is cultured and examined for the presence of bacteria or yeast
. The results of the test can help a healthcare provider determine the appropriate treatment for an infection
