Urine occult blood test
Quick answer: This test checks urine for blood that may not be visible to the eye. It is used to look for urinary infection, kidney stones, kidney disease and other urinary tract problems.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes to give the sample
- Before the testTell staff if you are on your period, as this can affect the result.
How the test is done
- 1You clean the genital area and collect a midstream urine sample
- 2A dipstick pad tests for haemoglobin from red cells
- 3If positive, the lab looks for red cells under the microscope
- 4Results are reported as negative or on a plus scale
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Exercise and periods can cause a positive result, so a positive test is often repeated with microscopy; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Blood in urine can be seen with urine infections, kidney stones, kidney inflammation, hard exercise and, less often, bladder or kidney tumours. A positive dipstick with no red cells seen can point to muscle breakdown or red cell breakdown.
Who usually has this test
People with red or brown urine, pain in the side, or urinary symptoms, and anyone having a routine urine check.
Risks and aftercare
There are no risks; a repeat sample is often requested if blood is found.
Names and options
Also called: blood in urine test, hematuria test
Listed by the hospital as
- OCCULT BLOOD, URINE
Questions about this test
Can my period cause blood in a urine test?
Yes, menstrual blood can easily mix with the sample. Wait until your period ends if you can, or tell the staff.
What if there is blood in my urine but I feel fine?
Small amounts are often harmless and short-lived, but doctors usually repeat the test. Blood that persists needs checking, especially in older adults.
Can exercise cause blood in urine?
Hard exercise can cause a short-lived trace of blood. Doctors may ask you to avoid heavy exercise for a day or two before a repeat test.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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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.