Concerns About Urine Test Results: UTI or Possible Contamination?
Female; Age 29; Height: 5’4 Hello all! I have a tendency to experience health anxiety, and recently I became worried about a potential UTI because of some pelvic discomfort and an increase in urination. My menstrual cycle began last Saturday, which might have contributed to the cramps I felt in my pubic area. Fortunately, the discomfort only lasted for a day. I visited urgent care on Sunday where they conducted a dip test that indicated the presence of white blood cells and blood in my urine. I was prescribed Bactrim, but I decided to hold off on taking it until I received my urine culture results. I received the culture findings yesterday, and it showed no growth, which is a relief. I provided another urine sample on Monday for both my primary care physician and my obstetrician, and the results from that are different. More details can be found in the comments below. Earlier, in August, I underwent blood tests that indicated my kidney function was normal. In the past, I have had minimal traces of protein and leukocytes in my tests, but never at a level of +1. However, looking up my symptoms online has been quite alarming. Currently, I am not experiencing any typical UTI symptoms, yet my mind is racing with fears of kidney failure or sepsis. My primary care doctor mentioned that contamination is a likely explanation and advised waiting for further results, which is consistent with what my obstetrician's office conveyed as well. Yet, I can’t shake the worry that I might have a UTI or a kidney infection that has been overlooked, leading to worse outcomes. Thank you for listening!
Answers (1)
9/14/2025, 9:20:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been quite concerned about your recent urinary test results and the symptoms you’ve been experiencing. It's understandable to feel anxious, especially when discussing potential infections and other health issues. Let’s break this down.
Main Points:
- Urine Culture Results: The absence of growth in your urine culture suggests that a urinary tract infection (UTI) is unlikely.
- Potential Contamination: Your healthcare providers mentioned the possibility of contamination impacting previous test results.
- Symptoms and Anxiety: Current absence of typical UTI symptoms reduces the likelihood of a serious issue, though your health anxiety is valid and important to address.
Explanation:
Your initial symptoms of pelvic discomfort and increased urination can be influenced by several factors, including your menstrual cycle. The presence of white blood cells and blood in your urine can indicate inflammation or irritation, but the lack of bacterial growth in the culture is reassuring. This means that it is unlikely that you have a UTI at this time.
Given your reports of experiencing minimal symptoms and the specialists' opinions about contamination, it's important to focus on the information you've received:
- Pelvic discomfort may have been related to your menstrual cycle and not necessarily an indication of a UTI or kidney issue.
- Health anxiety can amplify worries about serious conditions, especially when you actively seek information online, which can lead to unnecessary fear.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms. If you notice new symptoms like persistent pain, fever, or changes in urination, take note.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush your urinary system and maintain kidney health.
- Follow-Up Tests: Wait for the additional urine test results you've provided to your primary care physician and obstetrician. If those results are concerning or if symptoms return, discuss them with your doctors.
- Manage Anxiety: Practice relaxation techniques (like deep breathing or mindfulness) to help manage health anxiety. Engaging in regular physical activity or talking to a therapist can also be beneficial.
Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel anxious about health issues, especially with conflicting information. You’re taking the right steps by seeking advice and following through with medical guidance. If worries persist despite these measures, discussing them further with your healthcare provider can help address these feelings and reassure you.
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