H. pylori test (peptic ulcer)

Peptic ulcers and H. pylori

Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). They are often caused by H. pylori, a bacterium that can persist in the stomach for years without causing noticeable symptoms. Many people carry H. pylori from childhood without ever knowing.

An H. pylori infection can lead to:

• Gastritis – inflammation of the stomach lining
• Duodenal or stomach ulcers – causing pain or discomfort
• In rare cases, stomach cancer – prolonged untreated infection can increase risk

Testing for H. pylori can help identify the cause of persistent stomach issues and guide appropriate care.

Who should consider an H. pylori test?

An H pylori test can be helpful for:

• Adults experiencing persistent stomach discomfort or digestive symptoms
• People with a history of peptic ulcers or gastritis
• Individuals with a family history of ulcers or gastric cancer
• Anyone looking to identify a potential underlying cause of chronic stomach pain

Testing can provide reassurance, and early detection can help prevent complications associated with untreated infection.

Lifestyle and prevention tips

Although H. pylori is common, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection and support digestive health:

• Practice good hand hygiene, washing hands thoroughly before meals
• Ensure safe food preparation and proper cooking
• Avoid sharing eating utensils, cups, or other items that can transmit bacteria
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables to support gut health
• Reduce alcohol intake and avoid smoking, which can aggravate the stomach lining

What's included in the test H pylori test kit?

• Test cassette
• Sample collection tube with extraction buffer
• Stool collection paper

Storage: Keep the test at room temperature or in the refrigerator (2–30 °C). Do not use the test after the expiration date, and keep it in the sealed pouch until use.

How is the H. pylori test performed?

1. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and rinse with clean water.
2. Collect the stool sample: Use the stool paper and make sure to avoid contaminating the sample. Be careful not to let the sample or the side of the paper containing the sample come into contact with any contaminated objects, including the toilet.
3. Prepare the stool sample: Unscrew the cap of the sample collection tube and randomly insert the sample collection applicator into the stool sample in at least three different places. Do not scoop up the stool sample. Then screw the cap back onto the sample collection tube and shake it vigorously to mix the sample with the extraction buffer.
4. Ensure that the test cassette pouch is at room temperature before opening it. Take out the test cassette from the foil pouch and use it as soon as possible. The best results are obtained if the test is performed immediately after opening the foil pouch.
5. Open the cap of the sample collection tube and break off the tip. Turn the tube upside down and transfer 2 full drops of the sample to the sample well (S) on the test cassette. Then start the timer. Avoid getting air bubbles in the sample well (S).
6. Read the result after 10 minutes. Do not read the result after 20 minutes.