H. pylori Test (Breath, Stool or Biopsy)
Tests that detect H. pylori bacteria in the stomach.
Quick Summary
To diagnose H. pylori and confirm it's cleared after treatment.
Urea breath test, stool antigen or biopsy tests.
Stop acid-reducing medicines for 2 weeks and antibiotics for 4 weeks before, if advised.
Overview
The breath and stool tests are non-invasive.
Blood antibody tests can't show whether infection is current.
What It Measures
Urea breath test
Active infection.
Stool antigen
Active infection.
How It's Performed
- 01
Prepare
Stop medicines as advised.
- 02
Test
Breathe into bags before and after a drink, or provide a stool sample.
- 03
Results
Guides treatment.
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will explain what your result means and what happens next.
If values are High:
Positive results mean active infection needing treatment.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Tests(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine