Bacteriauteruscult
A laboratory test that identifies bacteria present in the uterus to diagnose infections.
{"This test detects and identifies bacteria in uterine tissue or fluid samples","It helps diagnose uterine infections such as endometritis","Sample is collected during pelvic exam, surgery, or biopsy","Results guide antibiotic treatment decisions","Results typically available in 2-5 days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77193-1
- Short code
- UTERUSC
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Uterus Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile transport swab (Amies or Stuart's medium) or sterile screw-cap container for tissue/fluid specimens; anaerobic transport vial recommended for endometrial biopsy or aspirate specimens
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 12–99 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87070
- SNOMED
- 428531000124106
- Specimen volume
- Endometrial biopsy: 0.5-1 g tissue; aspirate: 1-5 mL fluid; swab: adequate visible material on swab tip
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; frozen: not recommended for culture viability. Anaerobic specimens must be transported in anaerobic transport medium and processed within 24-48 hours.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A uterine culture is a laboratory test that detects and identifies bacteria present in the uterus. The test involves collecting a sample from the uterus (such as endometrial tissue, fluid, or discharge) and growing it in a laboratory to identify specific bacteria causing infection.
How is the sample collected?
Samples are typically collected during a pelvic examination using a sterile swab, through an endometrial biopsy, or during surgical procedures. The collection method depends on your specific medical situation and may be performed by a gynecologist.
What happens in the laboratory?
The sample is placed in special culture dishes with nutrients that allow bacteria to grow. Laboratory technicians observe which bacteria appear over several days and perform additional tests to identify the exact type of bacteria present.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria; normal uterine flora (if present) reported with quantitationN/A
Avoid douching, vaginal intercourse, or use of intravaginal medications for at least 48 hours prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected before initiation of antibiotic therapy whenever possible. Discontinue topical or systemic antimicrobial agents for at least 72 hours prior to collection if clinically feasible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Does this test hurt?
How long does it take to get results?
What do the results mean?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy