Urine tests, or urinalysis, are used to diagnose and manage many conditions. An infection, illness, or other conditions may change how your urine looks or what's present in it, such as increased proteins or sugars. A urine test can help your doctor identify these issues.

Urine tests may be used as part of a regular checkup, during a pregnancy checkup, or if you have symptoms like painful urination. Your doctor may also recommend regular urine tests if you have conditions like kidney disease.

Sometimes a urine test is enough to diagnose an illness, while in other cases it may point to the need for more tests.