What should you know about a urine sample cup?

The laboratory needs enough urine in the correct container, with the lid closed and the label matching your details. The inside of the cup and lid must remain clean. Soap, water, tissue or a household jar can change the sample or introduce material that looks like infection. A midstream sample often reduces contact with skin: pass a little urine first, collect the requested portion, then finish urinating normally. Follow the instructions from your clinic if they differ.

Wash your hands and clean the genital area only if instructed. Do not touch the inner surface. Fill the cup as directed, secure the lid, label it immediately if asked, and place it in the transport bag. Return it within the advised time and keep it stored as instructed. Tell staff if the cup was dropped, opened, overfilled or contaminated. A clean sample supports a [Urine Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/urine-test/) and can help assess a [Urinary Tract Infection](/conditions/urinary-tract-infection/).

Do not delay medical assessment because collecting a cup is difficult if you have fever, shaking chills, severe side or back pain, vomiting, confusion, visible blood or trouble passing urine. These symptoms can need prompt evaluation for a [Kidney Infection](/conditions/kidney-infection/) or blockage.

Ask whether you need a clean-catch or other collection method, how much urine is required, where to store it, and when it must arrive. Ask whether a repeat sample is needed if skin cells or contamination are reported.