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Urine pH

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

A urine pH test measures the acidity or alkalinity of urine and can help evaluate kidney function, metabolic conditions, and some urinary infections.

Quick summary

["This test shows how acidic or alkaline your urine is, but the result must be interpreted alongside symptoms and other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
91566-0
Short code
Rumor related to PH emerg
Synonyms
Rumor related to PH emerg
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

A urine pH test measures the hydrogen ion concentration in urine. It is commonly included as part of a urinalysis and reflects the balance between acids and bases in the body.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to investigate changes in urination, suspected urinary tract infection, kidney problems, or unusual blood acidity. It may also be monitored during treatment with certain medicines.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested using a reagent strip or a laboratory urine analyzer. The result is reported as the urine pH, and it is often reviewed with other urinalysis findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about when to collect the urine. Often, a first-morning or clean-catch sample is requested, and the sample should be placed in the provided sterile container and tested as soon as possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine pH

Frequently asked questions

Does fasting affect the urine pH result?
Fasting is not usually required, although food and drink can affect urine acidity. Follow any specific preparation instructions provided by your clinician.
Can a urine pH result diagnose a urinary tract infection?
No. Urine pH may support the evaluation of a possible infection, but a urine culture or other testing is generally needed to confirm infection.
Why might the same person have different urine pH results?
Urine pH can vary with diet, fluid intake, medications, time of day, and how quickly the sample is tested.
  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