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Urinalysis (UA)

Published: August 1, 2026Updated: August 1, 2026

A routine urine test that examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine to evaluate kidney and urinary tract health.

Quick summary

["Evaluates kidney function and detects urinary tract infections","Can help diagnose diabetes, kidney disease, and metabolic disorders","Includes physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of urine","Usually part of routine health checkups and pre-surgical screening","Results can indicate dehydration, infection, or kidney problems"]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 1, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Category
urinalysis
Sample
urine
Container
sterile container
Fasting
false

What is a Urinalysis?

A urinalysis (UA) is a common diagnostic test that analyzes urine to evaluate the health of your kidneys and urinary system. It examines the appearance, concentration, and content of urine to detect a wide range of conditions, from urinary tract infections to kidney disease. The test involves three main components: visual examination (color and clarity), chemical analysis (using test strips), and microscopic examination (looking at cells, crystals, and bacteria).

What tests are included?

  • Appearance (color and clarity)
  • Specific gravity (urine concentration)
  • pH level (acid-base balance)
  • Protein (albumin)
  • Glucose (sugar)
  • Ketones
  • Blood/hemoglobin
  • Leukocyte esterase (white blood cells)
  • Nitrites (bacteria)
  • Microscopic examination (RBCs, WBCs, epithelial cells, crystals, bacteria)

When is this test needed?

A urinalysis is ordered for various reasons: as part of a routine physical examination or annual checkup, when symptoms like frequent urination, pain, or blood in urine occur, to monitor existing conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease, before surgery, and during pregnancy monitoring. It helps healthcare providers detect problems early, monitor treatment effectiveness, and guide further diagnostic testing if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before a urinalysis?
Generally, no fasting is required for a standard urinalysis. However, your healthcare provider may ask you to fast if the test includes specific components like glucose or ketone measurement. It's important to follow any specific instructions given by your doctor.
How is the urine sample collected?
You will be given a clean collection container. For a midstream clean-catch sample, you begin urinating into the toilet, then collect the middle portion of urine in the container, and finish urinating into the toilet. This method helps minimize contamination. For certain tests, a catheter or suprapubic sample may be required.
What do abnormal results mean?
Abnormal urinalysis results can indicate various conditions. For example, protein in urine may suggest kidney damage; glucose may indicate diabetes; ketones may suggest metabolic issues; blood may indicate infection, stones, or kidney disease; high white blood cells suggest infection. Your healthcare provider will interpret results in context of your overall health and other test results.
Is urinalysis painful?
No, urinalysis is a non-invasive test. The only discomfort may be the brief sensation of urinating into a container. There are no needles or instruments inserted into the body for this test.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic - UrinalysisSource
  2. 2
    MedlinePlus - UrinalysisSource
  3. 3
    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)Source

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 1, 2026. · Read our editorial policy