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Urinary Tract Infection Test

Urinary Tract Infection Test

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  • ✔️ Detects two key UTI markers: nitrites and leucocyte esterase
  • ✔️ Results available in just 1–2 minutes at home
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults experiencing burning, frequency, or urgency
  • ✔️ Helps you decide quickly whether to seek medical care
  • ✔️ CE-marked in vitro diagnostic device for reliable screening

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What Is a UTI Test Kit and How Can It Help You?

 

A urinary tract infection is one of the most common bacterial infections in the UK, affecting millions of people every year. Symptoms — burning when you urinate, needing to go more frequently, cloudy or strong-smelling urine — can be uncomfortable and worrying. The UTI test kit from Newfoundland lets you check for signs of infection at home, quickly and discreetly, without having to wait for a GP appointment. At just £9.99, it offers a practical first step when you suspect something is wrong. If you are also managing other health conditions, you might find our diabetes monitoring range useful, as people with diabetes are at higher risk of urinary tract infections.

The Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test is an in vitro diagnostic device — meaning it works outside the body using a urine sample. It detects two key markers: nitrites (produced when certain bacteria break down nitrates in urine) and leucocyte esterase (an enzyme released by white blood cells fighting infection). A result is available within minutes, giving you the information you need to decide whether to seek further medical advice.

 

How Does the Newfoundland UTI Test Work?

 

The science behind the test is straightforward. Most bacteria that cause UTIs — particularly Escherichia coli, which is responsible for around 80–85% of cases according to NHS data — convert urinary nitrates into nitrites as a by-product of their metabolism. At the same time, your immune system sends white blood cells (leucocytes) to the site of infection, and these release leucocyte esterase into the urine. The test strip contains reagent pads that react chemically to both of these markers.

  • Dip the reagent strip into a fresh midstream urine sample.
  • Remove the strip and hold it horizontally to prevent cross-contamination between pads.
  • Wait the specified time (usually 1–2 minutes) before reading.
  • Compare the colour change on each pad to the reference chart on the packaging.
  • A positive colour change on the nitrite or leucocyte pad suggests a possible infection.

 

Who Should Use the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test?

 

This test is suitable for adults who are experiencing symptoms that may indicate a UTI. It is particularly useful for people who have had recurrent infections and recognise the signs early. That said, it is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis — a positive result should always prompt a conversation with your GP or pharmacist.

  • Women aged 16 and over with typical UTI symptoms such as burning, frequency, or urgency.
  • Men experiencing urinary symptoms (though men should always see a GP if the result is positive).
  • People with recurrent UTIs who want to monitor symptoms between GP visits.
  • Anyone who wants a quick, at-home indication before seeking further care.

 

How Does the Newfoundland UTI Test Compare to a GP Urine Dipstick?

 

Feature Newfoundland UTI Test Kit GP / Pharmacy Urine Dipstick
Location At home, any time Clinic or pharmacy
Markers tested Nitrites + leucocyte esterase Nitrites + leucocyte esterase (and more)
Result time 1–2 minutes 1–2 minutes
Follow-up required Yes, if positive May be referred for lab culture

 

Is the Newfoundland UTI Test Suitable for All Ages and Conditions?

 

This test is intended for adults. It is not validated for use in children under 16, and results in elderly patients or those with certain conditions (such as diabetes or immunosuppression) may be less reliable — false negatives can occur. If you are pregnant, any positive result requires urgent GP review. You can also explore our cystitis and bladder infection range for supportive treatments while you await medical advice.

Store the test strips below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not use strips beyond their expiry date, as reagent degradation can affect accuracy.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test specifications
Treatment category Urinary tract infection diagnostics
Mechanism of action Colorimetric detection of nitrites and leucocyte esterase in urine
Effective for Indicating possible bacterial urinary tract infection
Suitable for Adults aged 16 and over
Active ingredient Nitrite and leucocyte esterase reagent pads
UK classification CE-marked in vitro diagnostic device (IVD)
Preparation Reagent dipstick strip
Route of administration In vitro (urine sample)

Specifications of Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test

 

What Is the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test and What Is It Used For?

 

The Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test is an over-the-counter, CE-marked in vitro diagnostic device designed to detect markers of a bacterial urinary tract infection in a urine sample. It is used by adults who are experiencing symptoms such as a burning sensation when passing urine, increased frequency or urgency, cloudy urine, or lower abdominal discomfort. The NHS estimates that UTIs affect around one in two women and one in ten men at some point in their lives, making rapid home testing a genuinely useful tool for many people.

The test does not diagnose a UTI definitively — only a laboratory urine culture can do that. What it does is give you a quick, evidence-based indication of whether infection markers are present, helping you decide whether to seek medical care promptly. It is not intended to replace clinical assessment, and a negative result does not rule out infection if symptoms are present.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the Newfoundland UTI Test?

 

Before using this test, read the instructions carefully. There are some situations where the test may not be appropriate or where results may be unreliable.

Do not use this test if:

  • You are under 16 years of age.
  • The test strips have passed their expiry date.
  • The foil packaging has been damaged or previously opened.
  • You have already started a course of antibiotics for a suspected UTI (results may be falsely negative).

Use with caution and seek medical advice if:

  • You are pregnant — any positive result requires urgent GP or midwife review.
  • You have diabetes, as glucose in the urine can occasionally affect leucocyte readings.
  • You are immunocompromised, as leucocyte response may be reduced.
  • You are elderly, as atypical presentations of UTI are more common.
  • You have recurrent UTIs (three or more per year) — your GP may recommend further investigation.

Known factors that may affect results:

  • High-dose vitamin C (ascorbic acid) supplementation can suppress the nitrite reaction, causing a false negative.
  • Certain foods (e.g. beetroot) can discolour urine and make colour comparison harder.
  • Dilute urine from high fluid intake may reduce sensitivity.

 

How Should You Use the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test?

 

For the most reliable result, use the first urine of the morning, as this is most concentrated and most likely to contain detectable levels of nitrites if bacteria are present. Follow these steps carefully.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after the test.
  2. Collect a midstream urine sample in a clean, dry container — allow the first part of the stream to pass before collecting.
  3. Remove one test strip from the foil pouch immediately before use.
  4. Dip the entire reagent area of the strip into the urine sample for no longer than 2 seconds.
  5. Remove the strip and hold it horizontally to prevent mixing of reagents between pads.
  6. After 1–2 minutes (check the exact time in the package insert), compare the colour of each pad to the reference chart on the packaging.
  7. Read results within the time window stated — reading too early or too late can give inaccurate results.
  8. Dispose of the used strip and urine sample hygienically.
Indication Age Group Number of Tests Frequency
Suspected UTI symptoms Adults 16+ 1 strip per test Once; repeat if symptoms persist after 48 hours
Monitoring recurrent UTI Adults 16+ 1 strip per episode At onset of symptoms only

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the Newfoundland UTI Test?

 

As a diagnostic test strip rather than a medicine, the Newfoundland UTI test does not cause systemic side effects. However, there are a small number of local and psychological considerations to be aware of.

Common considerations:

  • Mild skin irritation if reagent chemicals come into direct contact with skin — rinse with water if this occurs.
  • Anxiety or distress following a positive result — speak to your pharmacist or GP for reassurance and next steps.

Less common considerations:

  • Misinterpretation of results leading to delayed treatment — always seek professional advice if symptoms persist regardless of the result.
  • False reassurance from a negative result — a negative test does not exclude a UTI if symptoms are present.

If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms such as fever, back or loin pain, nausea, or vomiting, seek urgent medical attention as these may indicate a kidney infection (pyelonephritis), which requires prompt treatment. You can also browse our pain relief range for symptomatic comfort while awaiting medical care.

 

How Should You Store the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test?

 

  • Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze the test strips.
  • Keep the strips in their original sealed foil pouch until immediately before use.
  • Do not use strips after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Do not store near strong chemicals, solvents, or cleaning products, as fumes can degrade the reagent pads.

For women who experience recurrent infections, our women's health range includes a variety of supportive products that may help alongside medical treatment.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy a UTI test kit online in the UK?

You can buy the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test directly from Cured Pharmacy online for £9.99 with fast UK delivery. No prescription is needed as it is an over-the-counter diagnostic device. It is also available from some high street pharmacies, though online ordering is often more convenient.

How does a UTI test kit detect infection?

The test strip contains two reagent pads — one that reacts to nitrites produced by bacteria in the urine, and one that detects leucocyte esterase released by white blood cells. A colour change on either pad within the reading window suggests infection markers are present. The result is available within 1–2 minutes of dipping the strip.

How do I use the Newfoundland UTI test step by step?

Collect a midstream urine sample in a clean container, then dip the reagent strip into the sample for no longer than 2 seconds. Hold the strip horizontally and wait the time stated in the instructions before comparing the colour pads to the reference chart on the packaging. Always read the result within the specified time window for accuracy.

How accurate is a home UTI test kit compared to a lab test?

Home dipstick tests are a useful screening tool but are not as definitive as a laboratory urine culture, which identifies the specific bacteria and their antibiotic sensitivities. A positive home result strongly suggests infection, but a negative result does not rule out a UTI if symptoms are present. Always consult a GP or pharmacist if you remain concerned.

Can men use a UTI test kit at home?

Yes, men can use the Newfoundland UTI test kit, although UTIs are considerably less common in men than in women. Because a UTI in a man can sometimes point to an underlying issue such as an enlarged prostate or kidney stones, men should always see a GP if the result is positive. Do not self-treat without medical advice.

What should I do if my UTI test result is positive?

Contact your GP or pharmacist as soon as possible — a positive result means infection markers are present and you are likely to need antibiotic treatment. Your GP may request a laboratory urine culture to confirm the bacteria involved and choose the most appropriate antibiotic. Do not delay seeking care, as untreated UTIs can progress to a kidney infection.

Can I use a UTI test kit during pregnancy?

Pregnant women can use the test to check for symptoms, but any positive result during pregnancy must be assessed by a GP or midwife urgently. Untreated UTIs in pregnancy are associated with risks including preterm labour and low birth weight, according to NHS guidance. Even a negative result should be discussed with your midwife if symptoms persist.

What can cause a false negative on a UTI test strip?

Several factors can reduce the sensitivity of the test and produce a false negative result. High-dose vitamin C (ascorbic acid) supplementation is a well-recognised cause, as it can suppress the nitrite reaction on the strip. Dilute urine from drinking large amounts of fluid before testing, or testing too early in an infection before bacteria have multiplied sufficiently, can also reduce accuracy.

What are the alternatives to a home UTI test kit?

Alternatives include visiting your GP surgery or a walk-in centre for a clinical urine dipstick test, or submitting a urine sample for laboratory culture and sensitivity testing, which remains the gold standard. Many pharmacies also offer a UTI consultation service where a pharmacist can assess your symptoms and, in some cases, supply antibiotics under a Patient Group Direction. You can also explore our cystitis and bladder infection range for supportive treatments.

Is the UTI test kit suitable for people with diabetes?

People with diabetes can use the test, but should be aware that glucose in the urine and altered immune responses may affect the reliability of results. People with diabetes are at higher risk of UTIs and may experience atypical symptoms, so any suspicion of infection should be discussed with a GP promptly. Do not rely solely on a home test if you have diabetes and are feeling unwell.

How long does it take to get a result from the Newfoundland UTI test?

Results are typically available within 1–2 minutes of dipping the strip, making it one of the fastest ways to check for infection markers at home. It is important to read the result within the time window specified in the package instructions — reading too early or too late can lead to inaccurate colour interpretation. Always use the reference chart on the packaging for comparison.

Can I use a UTI test kit to monitor a recurring infection?

Yes, people who experience recurrent UTIs (defined by the NHS as three or more infections in 12 months) may find home testing useful for detecting a new episode early. However, recurrent UTIs should always be investigated by a GP to identify any underlying cause. Our women's health range also includes products that may support urinary tract health between episodes.

What is the best time of day to use a UTI test kit?

The first urine of the morning is generally recommended because it is the most concentrated sample of the day, making it more likely to contain detectable levels of nitrites if bacteria are present. Avoid testing after drinking large amounts of fluid, as dilute urine can reduce the sensitivity of the reagent pads. If morning testing is not possible, a sample held for at least four hours in the bladder is the next best option.

What are the latest research findings on home UTI dipstick tests?

NICE guidance (NG112, 2018) acknowledges that urine dipstick testing for nitrites and leucocyte esterase is a useful first-line tool in primary care and community settings for assessing suspected UTIs in adults. Research continues to explore the role of point-of-care testing in reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescribing, which is a key public health priority in the UK. Home testing kits that mirror clinical dipstick methodology are considered a reasonable screening option when used alongside clinical judgement.

How should I dispose of a used UTI test strip safely?

Used test strips should be disposed of in your household waste — they do not require special clinical waste disposal for home use. Wrap the used strip in tissue before placing it in the bin to avoid contact with the reagent chemicals. The urine sample should be poured down the toilet and the collection container rinsed thoroughly before disposal or reuse.

How Should You Use the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test?

Using the test correctly is essential for getting a reliable result. Always read the full package insert before you begin, and make sure you are testing a fresh urine sample — do not use a sample that has been standing for more than 30 minutes, as this can affect accuracy.

What Is the Correct Dose of the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test?

This is a diagnostic test rather than a medicine, so "dose" refers to the number of test strips used per episode. One strip is sufficient for a single test. If symptoms persist after 48 hours and the first result was negative, you may repeat the test once — but persistent symptoms should always prompt a GP or pharmacist consultation regardless of the result.

When Is the Best Time to Use the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test?

The first urine of the morning gives the most concentrated sample and is therefore the most reliable time to test. Overnight, bacteria have more time to multiply and produce nitrites, making them easier to detect. If morning testing is not possible, try to use a sample that has been held in the bladder for at least four hours.

Avoid testing immediately after drinking large amounts of fluid, as this dilutes the urine and can reduce the sensitivity of the reagent pads, potentially leading to a false negative result.

How Long Can You Use the Newfoundland Urinary Tract Infection Test For?

This test is intended for short-term, episodic use — one strip per suspected infection episode. It is not designed for daily or routine monitoring. If you are experiencing frequent UTIs (three or more per year), you should speak to your GP rather than relying on repeated home testing, as recurrent infections may require investigation for an underlying cause.

Do not use strips beyond the expiry date printed on the packaging, as reagent degradation will affect the reliability of results. Store remaining strips correctly to preserve their accuracy for future use.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Considerations When Using the Newfoundland UTI Test?

Because this is a diagnostic test strip rather than an ingested medicine, it does not cause systemic side effects. However, there are a small number of practical and psychological considerations that are worth knowing about before you use it. Being aware of these helps you use the test safely and interpret your result with confidence.

  • Mild skin irritation if the reagent chemicals on the strip come into direct contact with skin.
  • Staining of fingers or surfaces if the wet strip is handled carelessly after dipping.
  • Anxiety or distress following a positive result, particularly if you are unsure what to do next.

What Are the Less Common Issues Associated With UTI Test Strips?

Less commonly, people experience difficulties with result interpretation, particularly if colour vision is impaired or lighting conditions are poor. The colour changes on reagent pads can be subtle, and misreading a result — in either direction — can have consequences for your health decisions.

  • Difficulty distinguishing colour changes on the reagent pads due to poor lighting or colour vision deficiency.
  • False reassurance from a negative result, leading to delayed treatment when symptoms are genuinely present.
  • Unnecessary anxiety from a false positive result caused by factors such as contamination of the urine sample.
  • Misinterpretation of an equivocal (borderline) colour change as either positive or negative.

What Are the Serious Signs You Should Not Ignore After Testing?

If your test is positive and you develop any of the following symptoms, seek urgent medical attention — these may indicate the infection has spread to the kidneys (pyelonephritis), which is a more serious condition requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.

  • High temperature (fever above 38°C) or feeling hot and shivery.
  • Pain in your back, sides, or lower abdomen that is severe or worsening.
  • Nausea or vomiting alongside urinary symptoms.
  • Blood in the urine (haematuria) — always warrants medical review.
  • Confusion or feeling generally very unwell, particularly in older adults.

What Should You Do If You Experience Any Issues After Using the Test?

If you experience skin irritation from contact with the reagent strip, rinse the affected area with clean water for several minutes. If irritation persists, seek advice from a pharmacist. If you are distressed by a positive result or unsure how to interpret your result, contact your GP surgery or call NHS 111 for guidance. Never delay seeking medical care because a home test gave a negative result — clinical assessment always takes priority over a home screening tool.

Can the UTI Test Interact With Other Medicines or Substances?

The test itself does not interact with medicines in the way that drugs interact with each other. However, certain substances can affect the accuracy of the reagent pads and therefore influence your result. High-dose vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is the most clinically significant — it can suppress the nitrite reaction and produce a false negative. Some antibiotics, if already started before testing, may also reduce bacterial load sufficiently to give a negative result even when infection was present. Always inform your GP or pharmacist if you have already taken any medication before testing.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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