Many urine tests, especially urine cultures, are only as accurate as the way the urine sample is collected.

If the sample is contaminated by bacteria from the skin or genital area, the report may be misleading and could result in unnecessary antibiotics or repeated testing.

How to collect a clean midstream urine sample

Here’s how to collect a clean midstream urine sample correctly:

Step-by-step collection

Step 1: Wash your hands

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Step 2: Clean the genital area

Before passing urine, gently clean the genital area with clean water or a cleansing wipe if provided.

Women: Separate the folds of skin (labia) and wipe from front to back.

Men: If uncircumcised, gently pull back the foreskin and clean the tip of the penis.

Step 3: Start urinating

Begin passing urine into the toilet.

Step 4: Collect the middle portion

After the first few seconds, without stopping the flow, place the sterile urine container into the stream and collect the middle portion of urine.

Do not allow the container or its lid to touch your skin or genital area, and do not touch the inside of the container.

Step 5: Finish urinating

Pass the remaining urine into the toilet.

Step 6: Close and send the sample

Remember

Close the lid tightly, wash your hands again, and give the sample to the healthcare staff as soon as possible—ideally within 1 hour. If there is any delay, keep the sample refrigerated if advised.

Remember

A clean midstream urine sample gives the most accurate results for urine infection, protein, blood, and other urine tests.

Taking an extra minute to collect the sample properly can prevent incorrect results, unnecessary antibiotics, and repeat testing