Various Methods We Use to Diagnose UTIs
Using a scope to see inside your bladder: A cystoscope, a long, thin tube with a camera lens, is passed through your urethra into your bladder to examine what could be causing the infection. This is typically done when a patient has recurring UTIs.
Growing the urinary tract bacteria in our lab: A urine culture test tells your doctor what bacteria are causing your infection. This allows your doctor to prescribe you the medications that will be the most effective in fighting your infection.
Analyzing a urine sample: Your doctor may ask for a urine analysis to look for white blood cells, red blood cells, or bacteria. To avoid potentially contaminating your sample, you will be instructed to wipe your genital area with an antiseptic wipe and collect the urine midstream.
Creating images of your urinary tract: If your doctor thinks your frequent infections may be caused by an abnormality in your urinary tract, you may need to have an ultrasound, a computerized tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your doctor will use one or a combination of these methods to highlight problematic areas in your urinary tract.