What if urine culture is negative but I still have symptoms?

More information available on our UTI 101 Blog - under Tests.

Ask your doctor for the following options:

Comprehensive Urine Culture

Same as sample that is collected and sent to lab for culture over 2-3 days but

lab report will show all levels of possible bacteria, even low Colony Forming Units (CFUs).

Best to do a first or second morning urine sample so that urine is more concentrated.

Pelvic Ultrasound
This non-invasive test can be helpful to see if there are any other possible causes for your symptoms, such as ovarian cysts or fibroids.

Post-Void Residual Urine Test
This test checks to see if you are retaining any urine. Can be done at the same time as pelvic ultrasound.

DNA Sequencing Urine Test

Use of DNA sequencing to detect pathogens at the molecular level that standard urine cultures may have missed. The following tests testing can possibly identify bio-film infections.

This testing is becoming more readily available and can be ordered by your doctor.

MicroGenDX is a leading lab test option that you can speak to your doctor about.

Watch out for our upcoming blog about this test! In the meantime, here's a link for more information about MicroGenDX (link)

Aperiomics uses sequencing and genomic analysis approaches, which can identify any known pathogen. They compare the complete genetic fingerprint of a sample to a database of more than 32k+ microbes/pathogens, the largest database of its kind in the world. This testing can possibly identify bio-film infections. Click here for more info about Aperiomics (link)

Additional Testing to Include

Full Blood Work including: CBC, Kidney Function, ANA, and HNK1 CD57.

Thyroid: there is a direct connection between the thyroid and bladder.

Hormones: for example, low estrogen is known to cause bladder issues.

Vitamin deficiencies: Vitamin D3 being a common factor with bladder health and immunity.

Gene mutations such as MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase).