3 Follow-Up Checks When a Urine Test Finds Blood

A message saying “blood in your urine” can send you back through every bathroom visit you remember. You may have seen nothing unusual. Take the result and the follow-up instructions together: what was found, and what happens next?

Three follow-up checks

1. What result are we discussing? Ask which urine test found blood and whether another sample is needed to confirm it. NIDDK describes urinalysis and sometimes repeat testing as part of assessment. Request a copy you can bring to another appointment.¹

2. Could sample timing matter? Menstrual blood can enter a urine sample. If you were menstruating, tell the clinician; they may arrange another test after bleeding ends. That possibility should be discussed rather than used to dismiss the result yourself.¹

3. What further assessment fits my history? The clinician considers symptoms, medical history and examination before choosing additional tests. Ask which investigation is recommended for you and what question it will answer.¹

Make the next step specific

Visible blood needs prompt medical assessment, even if it happened once, was a small amount or you are unsure it was blood.²

Write down the date of the sample, when your period started and any symptoms you want to mention. Ask who will contact you with the next result. If no appointment or repeat sample has been arranged, call the service rather than guessing how long to wait.

Laugh, Sneeze, Jump includes an appointment prep sheet. Use it to organize your questions and keep the clinician’s follow-up instructions beside them. See the book.