How to Test Mucus in Urine
A urinalysis involves collecting a sample of pee in a specimen cup, which is then analyzed for the presence of certain cells, bacteria, and other chemicals. Sometimes, a sample is requested first thing in the morning because more concentrated urine is easier to analyze. Urine collection containers and instructions for male and female patients could differ to test mucus in urine.
There are three basic types of urine tests:
- Visual exam. The lab will test the color and clearness of the urine, as well as the presence of any blood or foam.
- Dipstick test. The lab will dip a thin, plastic stick with chemicals into the urine. The stick will change color if a certain chemical is present at above-average levels.
- Microscopic exam. Laboratory professionals will examine a small amount of urine under a microscope to check for things that can't be seen with the naked eye, like red blood cells, pus cells, bacteria, and mucus levels.
Other mucus in urine tests may be necessary to rule out specific conditions. For example, a urine protein test can help you determine whether you have kidney stones.
Urine test strips and other home tests can offer peace of mind if there is mucus present in your urine. If you have further questions, contact a healthcare provider.
Summary
Unusual white, thread-like structures in the urine could be due to mucus in the urine. Clinical diagnosis of mucus in urine requires a urinalysis test. Excess mucus in urine can signify several medical conditions, and which one you have depends on your other symptoms and the overall results of your urinalysis. As a general rule, if excess mucus present in urine appears alongside pain when peeing, a more frequent need to pee, lower abdominal pain, or blood in your pee, you could have a UTI. Other medical conditions that could lead to mucus in urine include sexually transmitted diseases and kidney stones.
