If you can't deliver the sample to the designated area within 60 minutes of collection, refrigerate the sample, unless your provider has told you otherwise.Deliver the sample as directed by your health care provider.Urinate at least 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 milliliters) into the collection container.Pass the collection container into your urine stream.Women should spread the labia and clean from front to back. This method involves the following steps: You might be instructed to collect the sample midstream, using a clean-catch method. You might be asked to collect the sample at home first thing in the morning, when your urine is more concentrated. Providers typically give out containers for urine samples. You might collect a urine sample at home or at your health care provider's office. Before a urinalysis, tell your doctor about medications, vitamins or other supplements you take. Many drugs, including nonprescription medications and supplements, can affect the results of a urinalysis. Your health care provider will give you specific instructions. If you're having other tests, you might need to fast before the test. If you're having only a urinalysis, you can eat and drink before the test. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic How you prepare
Other tests, such as pregnancy testing and drug screenings, might rely on a urine sample, but these tests look for substances that aren't included in a typical urinalysis. If you've been diagnosed with a medical condition, such as kidney disease or a urinary tract infection, your doctor might recommend testing your urine regularly to monitor your condition and treatment. A urinalysis can help diagnose the cause of these signs and symptoms. A urinalysis might be requested if you have abdominal pain, back pain, frequent or painful urination, blood in your urine, or other urinary problems. Or it might be used to screen for a variety of disorders, such as diabetes, kidney disease or liver disease, when you're admitted to a hospital. A urinalysis might be part of a routine medical exam, pregnancy checkup or pre-surgery preparation. A urinalysis is a common test that's done for several reasons: