Other
Stool Test
A stool test analyses a sample of your poo to check for infection, inflammation, hidden blood or digestive problems. It is a simple, non-invasive test.
Quick answer
Stool Test: what it is and what the results mean
A stool (faecal) test examines a small sample of poo in the laboratory. Depending on what is being looked for, it can detect infections, inflammation markers such as calprotectin, hidden blood, or problems with digestion.
- Why it is done: It is used to investigate diarrhoea, tummy pain, bleeding or suspected infection, to help tell inflammatory bowel disease from irritable bowel syndrome, and as part of bowel cancer screening.
- Understanding results: Results depend on the test — for example, a germ may be identified in infection, a raised calprotectin can suggest bowel inflammation, or blood may prompt further tests.
What it is
A stool (faecal) test examines a small sample of poo in the laboratory. Depending on what is being looked for, it can detect infections, inflammation markers such as calprotectin, hidden blood, or problems with digestion.
Why it is done
It is used to investigate diarrhoea, tummy pain, bleeding or suspected infection, to help tell inflammatory bowel disease from irritable bowel syndrome, and as part of bowel cancer screening.
What to expect
You collect a small sample at home using the kit provided and return it for testing. It is simple and private, and instructions explain how to collect and store the sample.
Understanding the results
Results depend on the test — for example, a germ may be identified in infection, a raised calprotectin can suggest bowel inflammation, or blood may prompt further tests. Findings are interpreted with your symptoms.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
Collecting a stool sample carries no physical risk. Some tests need correct collection and prompt return to be accurate, and a single sample may occasionally miss an intermittent problem.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Stool Test: frequently asked questions
What can a stool test detect?
Depending on the test, it can find gut infections, markers of inflammation such as calprotectin, hidden blood, and signs of digestive problems. Your clinician chooses the test based on your symptoms.
What is a calprotectin test?
It measures a protein in the stool that rises when there is inflammation in the bowel. It helps distinguish inflammatory bowel disease, which needs further tests, from irritable bowel syndrome.
Related tests
Other other investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- UK National Screening Committee / relevant professional body
Building patient-education content for tests or procedures?
We create clear, accurate, referenced medical explainers and decision aids for teams.