A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting any part of your urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being the most common culprit. These bacteria typically enter the urinary tract through the urethra and can cause inflammation and discomfort. Individuals often wonder if testing for such an infection is possible during menstruation.
Getting Tested During Your Period
It is possible to get tested for a UTI even during your period. Healthcare providers can still obtain a sample for analysis. However, sample collection requires specific considerations for accurate results. Informing your healthcare provider that you are menstruating is helpful when seeking testing for a suspected UTI.
How Menstruation Influences UTI Test Results
Menstruation can affect UTI test accuracy due to urine sample contamination. Menstrual blood and vaginal discharge can mix with the urine. This contamination may introduce red blood cells, white blood cells, or bacteria not from the urinary tract infection. Blood in the sample can lead to false positive results for blood or protein, or obscure bacteria causing the UTI. For instance, a urine dipstick test for nitrites or leukocyte esterase, indicators of bacterial infection and white blood cells, can be affected.
Ensuring Accurate Test Results
To minimize the impact of menstruation on a urine test, specific collection techniques are recommended. The goal is to obtain a “clean catch” midstream urine sample, which helps reduce contamination from the genital area.
Thoroughly wash your hands before collecting the sample. For individuals with a vagina, clean the genital area from front to back using antiseptic wipes. Spreading the labia and wiping the inner folds from front to back, then over the urethral opening, can help.
Begin to urinate a small amount into the toilet to flush out contaminants, then collect the midstream portion in a sterile container without touching the inside of the cup. Using a tampon or menstrual cup before collecting the sample can also help prevent menstrual blood from entering the urine specimen. It is important to communicate with the healthcare provider or lab technician that you are on your period, as this information is relevant for interpreting the test results.
Distinguishing UTI Symptoms from Period Symptoms
Distinguishing UTI symptoms from period symptoms can be challenging due to overlap. Both conditions can cause lower abdominal or pelvic pain, bloating, and fatigue. However, certain symptoms are more indicative of a UTI.
Burning or stinging during urination is a strong UTI indicator, not typically associated with menstruation. Increased frequency and urgency of urination, even with small amounts, also suggest a UTI. Cloudy urine or urine with a strong, foul odor are characteristic signs of a UTI. While blood in urine can occur with UTIs, it can be difficult to differentiate from menstrual bleeding during a period.