Testing your urine

Being in control of your diabetes from day to day allows you to lead a healthy life in the way you choose. Testing and recording the sugar levels in your body helps you to be in control. Urine testing will give you information about the sugar levels in your body.

If you are dependent on either tablet or insulin treatment for your diabetes, then you are exempt from prescription charges. Your GP or clinic will tell you how to claim. If you are treated with diet alone and under the age of 60 you may find you are asked to pay a prescription charge for your urine testing strips.

How do I test my urine?

You pass a test strip through your urine stream or dip the strip into a container of your urine.
Don't worry if you get urine on your hands, it is completely clean and will do you no harm.
The strip will change colour with the amount of sugar in your urine.
You will need a watch or clock with a second hand to time the test.
Remember to wash your hands after you have finished the test.

Your doctor or nurse will discuss with you what time to test, how often to test and the name of your strips.

It is important to read and follow carefully the instructions on the container of your test strips.

What do I do with the results?

Keep a record of your urine test results either in a diary or on a chart provided by your clinic.
Remember to take your diary or chart with you each time you visit your doctor or nurse so that you can discuss the results and any changes that may be needed to your self-care treatment.
If your urine test results often show 1% sugar or more, contact your clinic and ask their advice.
If you have insulin dependent diabetes, ask about testing for ketones.

What else do I need to know?

Remember to note the name of your urine test strips so you can get more supplies from your GP.
Your urine test strips do not need to be stored in a fridge.
Discuss your sight with your doctor or nurse if necessary. If you are colour blind, some strips will be easier to read than others.
Urine tests will not tell you if your blood sugar is below normal levels. If you are taking tablets for your diabetes, you need to know about preventing and treating a low blood sugar reaction (a hypo). Ask your nurse or doctor for advice.
Do not miss planned meals.