How to check for pinworms at home

Overview

A person with pinworms often has no symptoms. However, stubborn itch near the anus at night is a sign someone may have pinworm infection.

A healthcare provider should diagnose pinworm, but they may ask you to help them by doing one of these things:

• Look for the worms to appear on the skin near the anus 2 – 3 hours after the person suspected of pinworm infection is asleep.
  Symptoms of pinworms in kids

  The worms may also appear on clothes or bedding around this time.

• Conduct a "tape test". Press the sticky side of clear tape against the skin near the anus to collect pinworm eggs.
  • First thing in the morning is the best time, before the person washes, goes to the bathroom, or gets dressed.
  • Do this three mornings in a row.
  • Put the tape in a sealed container, a zipping bag, or provided specimen container for transport.

    If a glass slide is provided, apply the tape to the clear part of the slide and place in the container.

  • If the person has pinworm infection, eggs may appear on the tape under a microscope.

• Your healthcare provider may recommend a commercial "paddle"
  how to test for pinworms in kids
  how to detect pinworms in child