General guidelines may vary depending on the specific test, so always confirm instructions with your doctor or laboratory.
Blood Tests- Diet: Avoid fatty foods the day before. Most tests require fasting for 8–12 hours. You may drink a glass of still water 30–60 minutes before your visit.
- Medications: If advised by your doctor, stop taking them 24 hours prior. Avoid supplements containing biotin (vitamin H, B7).
- Alcohol & Smoking: No alcohol for 72 hours. Avoid smoking for at least 30 minutes.
Urine Tests- Avoid urination for at least 3 hours before collection.
- Wash the genital area (no antiseptics).
- Use a sterile container provided by the laboratory.
STD Tests (swabs, PCR, blood)- 1–2 days before: Avoid sexual contact; no douching.
- 2–3 days before: Do not use suppositories, creams, or gels.
- On the day: Test outside of menstruation. Maintain regular hygiene (no antiseptics). Swabs do not require fasting. Do not urinate for 2–3 hours before the test.
Stool Tests- Avoid iron supplements, probiotics, and antibiotics for 2–3 days before.
- Do not use laxatives or suppositories.
- Collect in a sterile container and deliver to the laboratory within 2 hours.