Urine and stool tests are non-invasive diagnostic tools that provide important information about kidney and urinary tract health, digestive function, infections and metabolic conditions. Correct sample collection is critical — a poorly collected sample can produce misleading results.
Urine Tests
Types of Urine Tests
- Urine Full Examination & Microscopy (UFEME) — detects protein, glucose, blood, bacteria and cells
- Urine Culture & Sensitivity (C&S) — identifies bacterial infection and appropriate antibiotics
- 24-Hour Urine Collection — measures kidney function over a full day
- Urine Pregnancy Test — detects hCG hormone
- Urine Drug Screen — detects substances of abuse
How to Collect a Midstream Urine Sample
For most urine tests, a clean midstream catch is required. Follow these steps carefully:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Clean the genital area with the antiseptic wipe provided
- Start urinating into the toilet — discard the first portion
- Without stopping the flow, collect the midstream portion into the sterile container
- Screw the lid on tightly and label with your name and date/time
- Deliver to the laboratory within 2 hours, or refrigerate at 2–8°C for up to 24 hours
Important: Do not contaminate the sample with toilet tissue, water or faeces. Do not collect during menstruation if possible — blood can interfere with results.
Stool Tests
Types of Stool Tests
- Stool Culture — identifies bacterial, parasitic or viral causes of diarrhoea
- Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) — detects hidden blood, used in colorectal cancer screening
- Ova & Parasite (O&P) — identifies intestinal parasites
- H. pylori Antigen — detects the bacteria linked to stomach ulcers
How to Collect a Stool Sample
- Obtain the sterile stool collection container from the laboratory or your doctor
- Use the toilet as normal — avoid letting the stool touch toilet water
- Use the small spatula attached to the container lid to collect a pea-sized portion
- For some tests, collect from multiple areas of the sample
- Seal the container tightly and label it
- Deliver promptly — most stool tests require fresh specimens within 1–2 hours
Do You Need to Fast?
Fasting is generally not required for urine or stool tests. However, for FOBT (faecal occult blood tests), you may be advised to avoid red meat and certain medications for a few days before collection — your doctor will advise you.
Interpreting Results
Always discuss results with your referring doctor. See our guide on how to read your lab report for help understanding the format.