I tested positive for a uti in a dip test . it's come back from the labs as normal ! how can this be ?

Indirect urine tests: A urinalysis (ua) test for things in the urine. There are markers that are found with bladder infections, but can also be present for other reasons. This is why the ua may suggest a uti, but the culture which grows out and identifies the specific bacteria would be negative. If you continue to have symptoms then return to your doctor for more tests, including evaluation fo interstitial cystitis.

Lots of reasons: Neither test is perfect. If you took any medication over the counter to reduce UTI symptoms before the dipstick, the medication will give a false positive reading on the dip stick. If you took any left over antibiotics before the urine culture done at the lab the urine culture may be negative. Part of being a good doctor is knowing when to ignore certain test results.