Stool Culture – Why am I having this test?

A stool culture test is used to check for infections of the intestines that are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Your health care provider may order this test if you have symptoms such as a fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea that last for more than a few days or weeks.

What is being tested?

This test checks your stool (feces) for bacteria, viruses, and parasites that may cause illness.

What kind of sample is taken?

A stool sample is required for this test. You will collect the sample when you have a bowel movement.

How do I collect samples at home?

You may be asked to collect a stool sample at home. Follow instructions from a health care provider about how to collect the sample.

When collecting a stool sample at home, make sure you:

• Use supplies and instructions that you received from the lab.
• Have a bowel movement directly into a clean, dry container. Do not collect stool from the water in the toilet.
• Transfer the sample into the germ-free (sterile) cup that you received from the lab.
• Do not let any toilet paper or urine get into the cup.
• Wash your hands with soap and water after collecting the sample.
• Return the sample to the lab as instructed.

How do I prepare for this test?

• Tell your health care provider about all medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.

How are the results reported?

Your test results will be reported as normal or will identify the abnormal bacteria, virus, or parasite that was found.

What do the results mean?

Normal results include:

• Normal intestinal flora. This means that the bacteria and fungi that are present are typically found in your intestines and are present in normal amounts.
• No ova or parasite infestation. This means that there is no evidence of parasites in your intestines.

Abnormal results will specify the bacteria, virus, or parasite that is responsible for the infection.

Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.

Questions to ask your health care provider

Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:

• When will my results be ready?
• How will I get my results?
• What are my treatment options?
• What other tests do I need?
• What are my next steps?

Summary

• A stool culture test is used to check for infections of the intestines that are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
• Your health care provider may order this test if you have symptoms such as a fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea that last for more than a few days or weeks.
• A stool sample is required for this test. You will collect the sample when you have a bowel movement.