Short, simple tips on what to do before a blood, urine or other test. Your own lab’s instructions always come first.
Do not stop any medicine before a test unless your doctor says so. Bring your medicine list. Drink water normally unless you are told otherwise. Follow your own lab's instructions first.
If you take diabetes medicines or insulin and the test needs fasting, ask your doctor beforehand what to do with your medicines, because fasting can make your blood sugar drop too low.
Nothing to eat or drink except water for at least 8 hours.
Many labs do not need fasting. If your doctor or lab asks, fast for the hours they say (often 10–12); water is fine.
No fasting is needed.
Follow your clinic's instructions; it is usually an overnight fast with water only.
Don't eat meat in the 12 hours before the test.
Usually no fasting is needed.
Biotin is in many hair, skin and nail supplements and can change some results. Tell your doctor or the lab. Don't stop or start anything on your own.
Wash your hands, and the genital area if you can. Start to pee, don't catch the first part, then collect the sample mid-stream in the lab's clean container. If the lab asks for a different type (for example first morning urine), do as they say.
Use the lab's container and don't let urine or toilet water mix with it.
2–7 days without ejaculation before the test, or as the lab says.
No ejaculation and no vigorous exercise (for example cycling) in the 48 hours before the test. Tell the doctor if you have a urine infection.
This is general guidance and does not replace the instructions of your lab or your doctor.