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U-M Health SystemThis information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition.
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Clean-Catch Urine Sample (Women)

What is a clean-catch urine sample?

A clean-catch urine sample is a sample of urine collected in a special way.

You may have bacteria in your urinary tract. They may be causing an infection. Your health care provider can test the urine for bacteria. This way of collecting urine helps keep out bacteria that are on your skin but not in your urinary tract.

How do I collect the sample of urine?

  1. Your health care provider will give you a cup for the urine sample.
  2. In the bathroom, wash your hands with soap and water.
  3. Remove the lid from the cup. Do not touch the inside of the lid or the inside of the cup. Place the lid flat side down on the counter.
  4. Wash your genital area from front to back. Use wet cotton balls or a packaged towelette obtained from your provider. Do not use soap.
  5. Separate your genital folds (also called lips or labia) with your hand. Wipe gently inside the folds with more wet cotton balls or a second towelette.
  6. Start urinating into the toilet. After the first part of the urine has gone into the toilet, put the cup under the stream of urine. Catch 1 or 2 tablespoons of the urine. Then remove the cup. You can finish urinating into the toilet.
  7. Put the lid on the cup and wash your hands.
  8. Give the urine sample to your health care provider.
Developed by McKesson Provider Technologies.
Published by McKesson Provider Technologies.
Last modified: 1999-03-19
Last reviewed: 2003-09-29
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
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