Urine is one of the body’s waste products. It is produced in the kidneys and collected in the bladder until a person urinates. Normally, the urine does not contain significant numbers of any microorganism. However, if bacteria or yeast are introduced into the urinary tract, they can multiply and cause a urinary tract infection, called a UTI.

A “mid-stream” urine sample is necessary for a culture so bacteria present around the urethra and on the hands are not introduced.

Instructions to self-collect the urine sample:

1. Hands should be washed just before beginning the collection.
2. Do not collect the initial stream of urine since it may be contaminated with skin and urethral bacteria.
3. Midway through the urination process, collect a sample of urine in a sterile screw-top container.
4. Tightly cap the container and wash your hands thoroughly.
5. The sample should be taken to the laboratory as quickly as possible to prevent the further growth of organisms.

NOTE - Toilet is available in the laboratory for Urine sample collection.