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Creatinine, Urine — Mass Concentration, Turbidimetry (Pregnancy)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures the concentration of creatinine in urine. During pregnancy, it can help assess kidney function and how concentrated a urine sample is.

Quick summary

["Urine creatinine helps evaluate kidney function and urine concentration, including during pregnancy."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108516-6
Short code
Pregntrl/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Pregntrl/Creat Msmt Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures creatinine, a waste product produced by the muscles, in a urine sample. Creatinine is filtered by the kidneys, so the amount in urine can provide information about kidney function and urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

Urine creatinine may be measured as part of an assessment of kidney function or to determine whether other substances in urine are appropriately concentrated. It may also be used to monitor kidney-related concerns during pregnancy.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory using a turbidimetric method. The result is reported as the mass concentration of creatinine in the urine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about when and how to collect the urine sample. The timing and amount collected can affect interpretation, so tell the laboratory if you are pregnant and provide any relevant collection information.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher urine creatinine concentration may occur when urine is concentrated or when muscle breakdown is increased. A lower result may occur with dilute urine or reduced kidney filtration. Results should be interpreted with the urine volume, other kidney tests, medications, and pregnancy status.

Short name

Urine creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What does urine creatinine measure?
It measures the concentration of creatinine, a muscle waste product, in urine. Creatinine is commonly used to help evaluate kidney filtration and urine concentration.
Why is urine creatinine checked during pregnancy?
Pregnancy can affect kidney function and body fluid balance. Measuring urine creatinine can help clinicians interpret other urine results and assess kidney-related concerns.
Does drinking water affect the result?
Yes. Drinking a large amount of fluid can dilute the urine and lower the creatinine concentration, while fluid restriction can make the urine more concentrated.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy