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Understanding Your Lab Results

Scroll down for more information on how to read your lab results:

Key terms:

Component

The name of the lab or test that was performed.

Source

Where the test was completed. Some examples include through urine samples, via pharyngeal (mouth) swab, or vaginally. This information is important to know in the event of a positive result to show where you may have been exposed.

Result

Your test result can be shown as a set of numbers or words. To help understand your results better, the words under “Result” are a different color if they are out of range.       

  • Negative or Non-reactive – the infection you were tested for was not found
  • Positive or Reactive – the infection you were tested for was found
  • See Note or “Comment” – see the “Comment” section for more details about your result
  • Inconclusive – this result is neither positive nor negative. This result can occur from inadequate sample collection, very early-stage infection, or for patients                    close to recovery. With an inconclusive result, collecting and testing another sample is recommended
Range

The number or word in this section is what the “normal value” is for this lab result. This range helps show what a typical normal result looks like. If your results fall outside of this range, or if you have symptoms despite a normal result, you will likely need more testing. These ranges are typically determined by analyzing a large population of healthy individuals and establishing the range of values that most people fall within and is often provided on lab reports to help healthcare professionals interpret the results and determine if any abnormalities or potential health issues exist.

Example:

Component: Chlamydia

Source: Urine

Result: Positive

Range: Negative

Interpretation: This result would indicate a positive chlamydia test for the urine sample

FAQs

Why did I get more than one result for the same test?

Planned Parenthood provides testing for different sources since it is possible to test positive from one source and negative for another. For example, if you tested for chlamydia, you might have left a urine sample and a throat swab. See the “Source” section of your results to find out what was tested.

What do I do if any of my tests are out of range?

If any of your tests show out of range and you haven’t received treatment, you can schedule a follow up appointment or contact our Case Management team for next steps. If any of your results are positive, our Case Management team will reach out to you to discuss your results and treatment as needed.

Need to schedule an appointment?

We have convenient appointment times at 20 different health centers in the counties of Imperial, Riverside, and San Diego.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, please call us at 1-888-743-7526 to schedule an appointment to be seen or be transferred to speak with a health care provider.

If you are attempting to reach us due to an emergency, please dial 911 immediately.

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