Urinalysis and urine culture for preterm labor

Routine values that are checked on a urine sample include:

• Color and cloudiness.
• The number of white and red blood cells.
• The amount of protein.

This urine test can check for a urinary tract infection in a woman who is having preterm labor symptoms.

A urine culture involves adding a small sample of urine to a container that holds a substance that helps bacteria grow (growth medium). The type and number of any organisms that grow are identified.

Both tests may be done if you are at risk for preterm labor, or during preterm labor, even if you do not have symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Using antibiotics to kill any bacteria that are present may help to prevent or stop preterm labor and to prevent related complications.

See the medical tests Urine Culture and Urine Test for more information.