How will my doctor diagnose a urinary tract infection?
Your doctor will take a careful history of your symptoms and examine you. The exam may include a pelvic exam. He or she will check for tenderness of the bladder or kidney area of your back. A sample of your urine may be tested for bacteria and pus.
The results of a culture of your urine will give your doctor the final diagnosis of infection, and also help guide what type of antibiotic would be appropriate for your problem.
Occasionally, if you have repeated infections or symptoms that continue after treatment, your doctor may suggest:
An intravenous pyelogram (IVP). An IVP is a special type of X-ray of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
A cystoscopy. This is an exam of the inside of the bladder with a small lighted instrument. It is usually performed by a specialist called a urologist.
