Urine C/S (Urine Culture and Sensitivity)

The Urine C/S (Urine Culture and Sensitivity) test helps detect harmful bacteria and yeast (a few Candida spp.) in urine that may be causing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Additionally, the sensitivity test helps identify the antibiotics most effective against those particular bacteria. It is also used to determine if there is resistance to any antibiotics.

Urine is the body’s liquid waste made when the kidneys filter out toxins from the blood. It is made up of water, salt, electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, and some metabolic end products. The pathway followed by urine from the kidneys to the outside is called the urinary tract. Sometimes, the urinary tract may get infected by some microorganisms, causing a UTI.

The Urine C/S (Urine Culture and Sensitivity) test is usually done when you experience symptoms of UTI, such as:

• Burning sensation while passing urine
• Back pain
• Lower abdominal pain
• Urinating more often than usual
• Painful or frequent urination
• Blood in the urine, etc., for appx. 3-4 days and does not subside

This test helps identify infection-causing microorganisms. If the results are positive, the sensitivity test helps determine which drugs (or antibiotics) are likely to be most effective for treating the infection. On the other hand, a negative urine culture indicates no signs of microbial infection; hence, it will not show sensitivity to various antibiotics.

Before the test, avoid urinating for at least 4 hours before collecting the sample to ensure accurate results. Also, avoid drinking excessive fluids before collecting the urine sample, as it may dilute the urine and affect the results. The doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications, like antibiotics and supplements, before a Urine C/S (Urine Culture and Sensitivity) test, as they may affect your test results. A midstream urine sample should be collected into a sterile container provided by the sample collection professional. Women are advised not to give the sample during the menstrual period unless prescribed, as that can interfere with certain test results.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition and formulate your overall treatment plan.

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

🥤Hydration: Keep it up! Stay hydrated to help flush out bacteria and reduce the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

🥙Eat (Diet): Cranberry compounds may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

🚴Activity (Exercise): Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, help strengthen the muscles that help empty the bladder.

Lifestyle (Hygiene): After urination or bowel movements, wipe from back to front to keep gut bacteria from getting into the urethra. 

👨‍⚕️Talk to Your Doctor (Consult): If you have persistent UTI symptoms or are at high risk, consult your doctor about taking a urine culture test.

💊Habits (Antibiotics): Do not self-medicate. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat UTI.