Ordering the Basic Parasite Test | Europe
The Basic Parasite Test helps detect parasites and their eggs in stool, which can cause symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, cramps, and unexplained weight loss. This test is often used to check for infections from protozoa, roundworms, tapeworms, and pinworms, especially after travel or when digestive symptoms do not improve with standard treatments. Interestingly, some parasites can cause mild symptoms that mimic common digestive issues, making them easy to overlook without proper testing.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Identify specific parasites or eggs present in your digestive system
- Pinpoint the cause of ongoing digestive symptoms that have not responded to other treatments
- Support targeted treatment by showing which type of parasite is present
- Reduce the risk of spreading infection to others by confirming a diagnosis
- Track the effectiveness of treatment by comparing before and after results
Who Should Consider Stool Parasite Screening
People who have had ongoing stomach pain, diarrhea, or fatigue after a recent trip or after drinking untreated water may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has returned from a hiking trip and now has stomach cramps and loose stools might want to check for parasites, especially if symptoms have lasted more than a week.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Digestive symptoms like gas, bloating, or constipation that do not improve with diet changes
- Unexplained weight loss or poor appetite over several weeks
- Children with frequent stomach aches and trouble sleeping
- People who work with animals or in childcare settings
- Someone with mild, recurring fevers and joint pain, which can sometimes be linked to hidden parasitic infections
Testing for parasites can help you find the exact cause of symptoms like diarrhea, cramps, or fatigue, so you can get the right treatment and avoid unnecessary medications. Delaying this test may allow the infection to persist, which can make symptoms last longer and increase the chance of spreading it to others. To get clear answers and start the right treatment, order the test when symptoms first appear or do not go away.
How to Prepare for Stool Ova and Parasite Analysis
Fasting is not required for this test, but you should follow the instructions in your test kit for collecting the stool sample. Always follow any directions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected and handled correctly.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Basic Parasite Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What the Test Means | Low and High Levels of Basic Parasite Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ova (Eggs) | None detected | This test checks for the presence of parasite eggs in your stool. Finding eggs means a parasite is living in your digestive system and may be causing symptoms. |
High levels mean parasite eggs are present, which shows an active infection.
Low levels mean no eggs were found, suggesting no current infection. |
| Parasites (Protozoa, Helminths) | None detected | This test looks for whole parasites, such as protozoa (like Giardia or amoeba) and helminths (like roundworms, tapeworms, or pinworms), in your stool sample. |
High levels mean parasites are present, which can cause digestive symptoms and may need treatment.
Low levels mean no parasites were found, so infection is unlikely. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
Basic Parasite Test FAQ
Is there Basic Parasite Test testing near me?
This test uses a home collection kit, so you can collect your stool sample at home and send it to the lab; check the draw location link at the top of the page for more details. For people with ongoing digestive symptoms, being able to collect the sample at home makes it easier to get tested quickly and comfortably.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, you can also use our one-on-one test results review service with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see includes standard shipping to your address and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find the cause of symptoms like diarrhea or stomach pain, so you can start the right treatment sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended after treatment or if symptoms return, often within 2-4 weeks, to confirm the infection is gone and to check for reinfection.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses direct microscopy and concentration techniques to detect parasites and eggs in stool, with a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 95%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
READ: These tests are available for European countries only.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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