What is the Stool Ova, Cysts and Parasites Test?

The Stool Ova, Cysts and Parasites (OCP) test is a laboratory analysis of a stool sample used to identify intestinal parasites and their life stages, including eggs (ova) and cysts. These organisms can colonise the gastrointestinal tract and may not be visible without microscopic examination.

The test is designed to detect protozoa and helminths such as Giardia, Entamoeba species, roundworms, hookworms, and other intestinal parasites. Because parasites may be shed intermittently, careful laboratory processing is used to improve detection.

This test is commonly requested when gastrointestinal symptoms persist despite normal blood tests or when there is a history of travel, exposure to contaminated food or water, or contact with infected individuals.

Why do I need a test for ova, cysts and parasites?

Parasitic infections are often underdiagnosed because symptoms can be vague, chronic, or mistaken for food intolerance or irritable bowel conditions. Identifying parasites early helps explain persistent symptoms and supports appropriate medical follow-up.

You may benefit from this test if you experience:

• Ongoing diarrhoea or loose stools
• Abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or low energy
• Nausea or intermittent vomiting
• Mucus in stool
• Symptoms after foreign travel
• Exposure to untreated water, animals, or childcare environments

Parasitic infections can affect nutrient absorption, gut health, and immune function. Testing is particularly important if symptoms are prolonged or recurrent.

Benefits of the test

1. Identifies hidden gut infections
   Detects parasites that are not visible on routine blood or stool tests.
2. Explains chronic digestive symptoms
   Helps uncover causes of long-standing gut issues when other tests are normal.
3. Supports targeted medical follow-up
   Clear identification of organisms guides appropriate clinical decisions.
4. Useful after travel or exposure
   Essential for people returning from high-risk regions or exposure settings.
5. Improves gut health assessment
   Provides insight into infections that disrupt digestion and absorption.
6. Non-invasive testing
   Requires only a stool sample, no blood draw needed.
7. Confidential and private
   No GP referral required, discreet testing.
8. Reduces misdiagnosis
   Helps avoid labelling symptoms as IBS or food intolerance without evidence.

Step-by-step: How we offer testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Receive a stool collection kit with instructions
• Collect the sample at home
• Return the sample for laboratory analysis
• Results are issued once testing is complete

Home or hotel service (+£60, UK-wide)

• Order your test with home support
• Collection kit provided with clear instructions
• No clinic visit required
• Ideal if you prefer privacy or convenience

Your results explained

No parasites detected (normal)

• No ova, cysts, or parasites identified in the sample
• UK standard: No parasites seen
• Suggests symptoms are not caused by detectable intestinal parasites

Parasites detected (positive)

• One or more parasites, ova, or cysts identified
• UK standard: Organism name reported (e.g. Giardia lamblia cysts detected)
• Indicates an active or recent intestinal infection

Equivocal or low-level findings

• Small quantities detected or unclear morphology
• UK standard: Indeterminate / repeat sample recommended
• May require repeat sampling due to intermittent parasite shedding