Stool culture and sensitivity
Quick answer: This test grows bacteria from a stool sample to look for germs that cause diarrhoea, such as Salmonella or Shigella, and checks which antibiotics work. It is ordered for severe, bloody or long-lasting diarrhoea, or after travel or a food poisoning outbreak.
- SampleStool
- TakesA few minutes to collect the sample
- Before the testCollect a fresh sample in the sterile container given, without mixing in urine or water.
How the test is done
- 1You collect fresh stool in a sterile container
- 2Liquid stool is fine, but keep urine and water out
- 3The sample should reach the lab quickly, ideally within a couple of hours
- 4The lab grows the stool on special media for diarrhoea germs
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal gut bacteria are expected; the report names any disease-causing germ found.
If the result is outside the usual range
Growth of germs such as Salmonella, Shigella or Vibrio can point to bacterial diarrhoea and guide antibiotic choice. No growth is common, as many cases of diarrhoea are caused by viruses.
Who usually has this test
People with severe or bloody diarrhoea, high fever, or diarrhoea lasting more than a few days.
Risks and aftercare
There are no risks; keep drinking fluids if you have diarrhoea.
Names and options
Also called: stool C/S, motion culture
Listed by the hospital as
- CULTURE AND SENSITIVITY, MOTION
Questions about this test
Should I give the stool sample before antibiotics?
If possible, yes, as antibiotics can stop germs growing in the lab. Tell the staff if you have already started any.
Does every bout of diarrhoea need a stool culture?
No, most mild diarrhoea gets better on its own. Culture is mainly for severe, bloody or long-lasting cases.
Can a stool culture find viruses?
No, it looks for bacteria. Viruses need different tests.
Related tests
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.