To obtain reliable laboratory test results, it is important to properly prepare for the collection of biomaterial and follow the recommendations of a medical professional.

Importantly!

Preparation rules depend on the type of test. Before taking the tests, read the recommendations for the specific test or clarify them with the laboratory employee.

Preparing for blood donation

• On an empty stomach or after a meal. If the test involves donating blood on an empty stomach, it is recommended to abstain from eating for 8–12 hours or follow another interval specified for the specific test. For some tests, fasting is not required.
• Water consumption. Before donating blood, you can usually drink clean, still water, unless otherwise specified in the preparation rules.
• Food and drinks. Before examinations that require fasting, you should not consume coffee, tea, juices, or other beverages, except for permitted water. It is advisable to avoid fatty foods and alcohol the day before.
• Physical exertion and stress. On the eve of the test, avoid intense physical exertion and, if possible, stressful situations. It is advisable to sit quietly for 10–15 minutes before blood sampling.
• Smoking. It is advisable not to smoke for at least 1 hour before donating blood, unless other requirements are established for a specific study.
• Blood donation time. For many studies, it is recommended to donate blood in the morning. For certain hormonal and other indicators, it is important to adhere to the specified collection time.
• Medical procedures and medications. If possible, blood is donated before instrumental, physiotherapeutic and other medical procedures. Do not stop taking prescribed medications on your own - clarify the preparation procedure with your doctor.

Features of training children

For infants, the time of blood sampling and the interval after feeding are determined taking into account the age of the child and the requirements of the specific study. If fasting is required, it is necessary to coordinate its duration in advance with the doctor or laboratory employee.

Rules for collecting urine and feces

• To collect urine and feces, use special sterile containers or containers designed for the appropriate study.
• Do not use household utensils or containers from food, detergents, or other substances.
• Follow the instructions on how to collect, store, and deliver the biomaterial to the laboratory. These requirements may vary for different studies.

Pay attention! If your doctor has given you specific instructions on how to prepare for the test, follow them. If you have any questions, contact the lab technician before taking the test.

Proper preparation for a laboratory test helps reduce the influence of external factors on the test results and increase their reliability. Recommendations depend on the type of test, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the preparation rules before submitting the biomaterial.

Preparing for a blood test

Biochemical studies, determination of glucose levels and lipid profile

To reduce the influence of factors that can alter laboratory test results, follow these recommendations:

1. If the test requires a fasting blood sample, it is recommended that the blood sample be collected in the morning after 8–12 hours of fasting or as directed by the test. For lipid profile and certain other tests, special fasting requirements may apply. Please inquire in advance if a fasting blood sample is required.
2. Fasting is not always necessary for a complete blood count. If you are scheduled for a test that requires you to abstain from food, follow stricter guidelines.
3. For young children, the feeding regimen before donating blood is determined based on the child's age and the requirements of the specific study. Do not allow a child to fast for a long time without the advice of a medical professional.
4. Before donating blood, it is usually allowed to drink clean, still water, unless otherwise specified in the preparation rules. There is no need to force yourself to drink a large volume of water.

General recommendations on the eve of the study

5. On the eve of the test, avoid intense physical activity, alcohol consumption, and unusual changes in diet. It is advisable to stick to your usual diet, unless other recommendations are provided for a specific test.
6. Try to go to bed at a regular time and ensure you get a good night's rest.
7. It is advisable not to smoke for at least 1 hour before donating blood, and stricter restrictions may be required for certain tests.
8. Do not stop taking medications on your own. If the medication may affect the test result or requires special preparation, consult your doctor in advance.
9. If possible, it is recommended to donate blood before performing instrumental, endoscopic, radiological and physiotherapeutic procedures. Please check with your doctor for the sequence of procedures and laboratory tests.
10. Immediately before the blood draw, avoid running, climbing stairs at a fast pace, and other physical exertion. Sit quietly for 10–15 minutes to allow your body to adapt before the test.

What should you avoid before having blood tests?

Before tests that require fasting, do not consume food or drinks, except for the permitted water. It is advisable to avoid excessively fatty foods and alcohol the day before, and intense physical activity and smoking immediately before donating blood.

Do not cancel the prescribed treatment or change the dosage of medications without consulting your doctor. If you are taking medication or have any doubts about the preparation, check with your doctor or laboratory worker for recommendations.

Importantly! Preparation instructions may vary depending on the type of test. To obtain reliable results, follow the recommendations specified for the specific test.

Different portions of urine and methods of collecting it are used for different laboratory tests:

• General urine analysis — preferably the first morning urine.
• Urine analysis according to Nechyporenko — average portion of morning urine.
• Biochemical urine tests — depending on the indicator, a daily or single portion of urine is used.
• Bacteriological examination of urine — an average portion of urine collected in a sterile container with observance of hygiene rules.

General urine analysis

• For the study, the first morning urine is usually collected after a thorough toilet of the external genitalia.
• An initial small amount of urine is flushed down the toilet, and the next portion is collected in a clean container for laboratory testing. Do not touch the inside of the container or its lid.
• The required urine volume should be confirmed by the laboratory. Unless other requirements are specified, 50–70 ml is usually sufficient.
• Deliver the specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible, preferably within 1–2 hours of collection, unless the laboratory has provided other instructions.
• A special infant urine collection container can be used to collect urine from infants. The collection method and container requirements must be agreed with the laboratory.
• Urine squeezed from a diaper is not used for laboratory testing.
• During menstruation, it is advisable to postpone the test unless it is urgent. If the test needs to be taken, inform the doctor and the laboratory staff.

Urine analysis according to Nechyporenko

• For the study, an average portion of morning urine is collected in a clean container for laboratory research.
• Before cleaning, it is necessary to perform a toilet of the external genitalia.
• The initial portion of urine is released into the toilet, the middle portion is collected in a container, and the final portion is again in the toilet.
• The sample volume should meet the laboratory's requirements. It should be delivered as soon as possible after collection.

Urine analysis according to Zimnitsky

• The study involves collecting urine over a 24-hour period in separate portions every 3 hours. A total of 8 portions are collected.
• At 6:00 AM, empty your bladder into the toilet. This portion is not collected. After that, begin collecting urine into separate, labeled containers according to the established schedule.
• Collect all urine collected during each appropriate time interval. If no urine is collected during a given interval, notify the laboratory. If more urine is collected than will fit in one container, follow the laboratory's instructions.
• Each container must be signed, indicating the batch number and time interval.
• During collection, store containers in the refrigerator at the temperature recommended by the laboratory, usually around +2…+8 °C. Do not allow to freeze.
• During the study, it is important to adhere to your usual drinking regimen and follow your doctor's recommendations.

Urine collection schedule according to Zimnytsky:

• And the portion: 6:00–9:00.
• Second portion: 9:00–12:00.
• Third portion: 12:00–15:00.
• 4th portion: 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
• Fifth portion: 6:00 PM–9:00 PM.
• 6th portion: 21:00–00:00.
• Seventh portion: 00:00–3:00.
• Eighth portion: 3:00–6:00.

Urine analysis for cortisol (24-hour urine)

• Daily urine is usually used for testing. Before collecting, check with the laboratory about the container requirements and the need to use a special preservative.
• In the morning after waking up, empty your bladder into the toilet. This portion is not collected. Record the time of collection.
• Then collect all urine for the next 24 hours in a suitable container, including the first morning portion the next day at the same time you started collecting.
• During collection, store the container in a cool place or in the refrigerator according to the laboratory's instructions. Do not freeze unless otherwise specified in the instructions.
• After collection is complete, measure the total daily urine volume and record it.
• If the laboratory allows only a portion of the sample to be delivered, mix the 24-hour urine thoroughly and collect the required volume into an appropriate container. Be sure to inform the laboratory of the total volume of urine collected in the 24-hour period.
• If even one portion of urine is missed or lost, notify the laboratory before submitting the sample.

Importantly! Collection guidelines, required volume, storage conditions, and delivery times depend on the specific study. Before collecting the biomaterial, read the laboratory's instructions or check with your healthcare professional.

For various stool studies, it is necessary to follow the appropriate recommendations for the preparation and collection of biomaterial.

Coprogram (coprological examination of feces)

• Before the test, tell your doctor or lab technician about any medications you are taking. Do not stop taking prescribed medications on your own. Laxatives, rectal suppositories, oils, and some other medications may affect the results.
• If you have recently taken antibacterial or antifungal drugs, inform the laboratory. The need and timing of the study after treatment depends on its purpose and the requirements of the laboratory.
• Feces are collected after self-defecation into a clean, dry pot or other clean container, avoiding contact with toilet water.
• Using a special spoon, collect a small amount of feces from several areas of the sample, especially if there are areas with a changed color or consistency.
• Place the material in a special stool container. The amount of sample should follow the laboratory's instructions; usually, filling the container about a third full is sufficient.
• Deliver the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible, adhering to established storage requirements and conditions.
• During menstruation, it is advisable to avoid menstrual blood getting into the sample. If the study is not urgent, discuss the possibility of postponing it with your doctor.
• In infants, stool can be collected from a clean, dry surface or diaper, as long as the material is not contaminated with urine. Check with the laboratory if it is possible to collect from a diaper.
• Do not allow urine, water, toilet paper, detergents or disinfectants to come into contact with the sample.
• Close the container tightly and place it in a separate clean bag for transportation.

Stool analysis for helminth eggs

• Usually, a special diet is not required before the study.
• Feces are collected after self-defecation in a clean, dry container, avoiding contamination with urine or water.
• Do not use laxatives, enemas, or rectal suppositories to collect the sample without your doctor's advice. If you are taking any of these, inform the laboratory.
• Collect small amounts of stool from several areas of the specimen, particularly if there are suspicious inclusions. Refer to the laboratory instructions for the required volume.
• Deliver the material to the laboratory as soon as possible and follow storage recommendations.
• As prescribed by a doctor, the study may need to be repeated several times, since helminth eggs are not always detected in one sample.

Stool examination for intestinal dysbiosis

• Before the test, inform your doctor or laboratory about any antibacterial, antifungal, or other medications you are taking that may affect the results. Do not stop treatment on your own.
• The timing of the analysis after the completion of treatment is determined depending on the purpose of the study and the requirements of the laboratory.
• Please check with the laboratory if you need to follow a special diet before the test. There is no need to significantly change your usual diet without specific recommendations.
• Collect feces after self-defecation into a sterile container intended for appropriate examination.
• Do not allow urine, water, or foreign matter to enter the sample.
• Deliver the material to the laboratory as soon as possible in accordance with its instructions. For bacteriological studies, it is especially important to adhere to the requirements for transportation and storage.
• Do not freeze the specimen unless specifically instructed otherwise by the laboratory.
• Close the container tightly, place it in a clean disposable bag and deliver it to the laboratory.
• For infants, the sample should be collected from a clean surface that is not contaminated with urine. The method of collection from a diaper should be agreed with the laboratory.

Scraping for enterobiasis

• The material for the study is collected in the morning immediately after waking up, before defecation and hygiene procedures.
• In children, collecting material after a daytime nap is possible if this is agreed with the laboratory.
• Do not wash or scrub the area around the anus before taking the sample.
• A special collection kit is used for the study. Follow the laboratory's instructions regarding collection and delivery techniques.

Fecal occult blood test

• Preparation guidelines depend on the test method. Before collection, determine whether a FIT or other occult blood test is being used.
• For the immunochemical test (FIT), it is usually not necessary to exclude meat, fish, eggs, green vegetables, or foods containing iron from the diet. For other methods, specific restrictions may apply.
• Do not stop taking prescribed medications on your own. If you are taking iron supplements, aspirin, anticoagulants, or other medications, tell your doctor or lab worker.
• Collect feces after self-defecation in a clean, dry container, avoiding contact with toilet water or urine.
• Using a special device or spoon, remove the material from the container according to the test system manufacturer's instructions. The required amount depends on the type of container.
• Close the container tightly and deliver the sample to the laboratory in accordance with the storage time and temperature requirements.
• If you have visible blood in your stool, don't delay seeing a doctor, even if the result of the occult blood test is negative.

Importantly! For reliable results, use the appropriate container, follow the rules for collecting and shipping the biomaterial. Requirements for volume, storage time, and preparation may vary depending on the specific study. If you have any questions, contact the laboratory employee before collecting the sample.

Proper preparation for a spermogram helps to obtain reliable results and correctly assess sperm quality. Before the study, it is important to follow the laboratory's recommendations.

Recommendations for preparing for a spermogram

• Sexual abstinence. Abstain from sexual intercourse and ejaculation for 2–7 days or as directed by the laboratory. It is advisable to maintain the same duration of abstinence for repeated tests.
• Alcohol and smoking. It is advisable to avoid drinking alcohol and smoking before the test. If the laboratory has given specific recommendations regarding this, follow them.
• Overheating. On the eve of the study, it is advisable to avoid saunas, baths, and prolonged overheating of the genital area.
• Medications. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including hormones, antibiotics, and medications for chronic conditions. Do not stop taking medications on your own.
• Physical exertion and stress. On the eve of the study, avoid excessive physical exertion and try to stick to your usual sleep and rest routine.
• Disease. If you have recently had a fever, an acute illness, or an exacerbation of a chronic illness, please inform your doctor. If necessary, he or she will help determine the optimal time for the examination.
• Hygiene before collecting material. Before collecting the sample, wash your hands and genitals with warm water and dry them thoroughly. Do not use antiseptics or products that may get on the sample.
• Sample collection and delivery. The sample is usually obtained by masturbation into a special sterile container provided by the laboratory. Do not use regular condoms or third-party containers. It is important to collect all of the ejaculate and notify the laboratory if any material is lost. Follow the instructions regarding collection location and delivery time.

Importantly! If a spermogram is being performed to evaluate male fertility, follow the recommendations of the laboratory and your doctor. Do not change your treatment before the test.

Bacteriological examination of urine

• Before collecting urine, thoroughly clean the external genitalia.
• Collect a mid-morning urine sample in a sterile container for bacteriological testing.
• Release the initial portion of urine into the toilet, collect the middle portion in a container without touching its inner surface.
• Usually 10–15 ml of urine is sufficient. Deliver the specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible, preferably within 2 hours of collection, or follow the laboratory's instructions for storage and transport.
• If you are taking antibacterial drugs, inform your doctor and the laboratory. Do not stop treatment on your own.

Bacteriological examination of discharge from the conjunctiva of the eye

• If possible, the material is collected before the start of antibacterial treatment. If you are already using eye drops or ointments, inform your doctor.
• Do not stop using prescribed eye medications on your own. The need and timing of the break before the examination is determined by your doctor.
• Material from the conjunctiva, eyelid margins, or other affected areas of the eye is collected by a healthcare professional with a special sterile swab, following the rules of asepsis.
• If possible, the sample should be collected before cleaning the affected area and applying local antiseptics. Follow the instructions of the healthcare professional.

Bacteriological examination of material from the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract (throat, pharynx, oral and nasal cavities)

• It is advisable to take a throat and pharyngeal swab on an empty stomach or no earlier than 2 hours after eating, unless the laboratory has provided other recommendations.
• Before taking the material, do not use antiseptic mouthwashes, sprays, drops and nasal ointments immediately before the procedure. Check with the laboratory for the required interval.
• If you are taking antibiotics or other antimicrobial drugs, tell your doctor. It is often most informative to take a sample before starting treatment.
• The material is collected by a medical professional using an appropriate sterile swab.

Bacteriological examination of sputum

• Sputum is usually collected in the morning, before eating. If this is not possible, follow the laboratory's recommendations.
• Rinse your mouth with clean water before brushing. Do not use antiseptic mouthwashes unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
• After taking a few deep breaths, cough up the phlegm from your lower respiratory tract. Do not just collect saliva.
• Collect the material in a sterile, wide-mouthed container without touching its inner surface.
• Close the container tightly and deliver it to the laboratory as soon as possible, following storage and transport recommendations.

Bacteriological examination of ear material

• If possible, the material is collected before the start of the use of antibacterial or antifungal drugs.
• If you are using ear drops, ointments, or taking antimicrobial medications, tell your doctor.
• Do not cancel the prescribed medications on your own. The need for a break before the study is determined by the doctor, taking into account the clinical situation.
• The material is taken by a medical professional from the appropriate area of the ear, observing the rules of asepsis.
• Before the test, do not clean the ear canal yourself or use antiseptics unless recommended by a doctor.

Bacteriological examination of material from the skin and wound surface

• Before taking the material, do not treat the affected area with antiseptics, disinfectants or medicinal products without consulting a medical professional.
• Inform your doctor about the use of topical antibacterial and antifungal medications.
• Material from a wound, boil, or other affected area is collected by a healthcare professional using an appropriate sterile instrument or swab.
• Do not squeeze the contents of the boil or try to take material from a deep wound yourself.

Bacteriological examination of breast milk

• If possible, the material is collected before the start of antibacterial treatment. If you are already taking antibiotics, inform your doctor and the laboratory. The timing of the study after the end of treatment is determined individually.
• Before cleaning, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and dry them.
• Wash the mammary glands and nipples according to the laboratory's instructions. Do not use harsh disinfectants or alcohol unless specifically recommended.
• Express the first few drops of milk separately. Collect the next portion into a sterile container without touching its inner surface.
• If it is necessary to examine milk from both mammary glands, use separate sterile containers and label them «right» and «left.».
• Close the containers tightly and deliver the material to the laboratory in accordance with its storage time and temperature requirements.

Bacteriological examination of urogenital material in men (material from the urethra, prostate secretion, ejaculate)

Taking material from the urethra

• If possible, the study is performed before the start of antibacterial or antifungal treatment.
• Inform your doctor about the use of antibacterial, antifungal and local antiseptic drugs. Do not stop the prescribed treatment on your own.
• It is usually recommended to refrain from urinating for 2–3 hours before collecting the sample, or as directed by the laboratory.
• Restrictions on sexual intercourse and the use of topical medications depend on the type of test. Please clarify these when making an appointment with the laboratory.
• The material is collected by a medical professional in compliance with the rules of asepsis.

Bacteriological examination of ejaculate

• If possible, the study is performed before the start of antibacterial therapy. If treatment has already been carried out, the timing of the re-examination is determined by the doctor.
• Before collecting the material, follow the laboratory-recommended period of sexual abstinence, usually 2–7 days.
• Wash your hands and genitals and dry them thoroughly before picking.
• Collect the ejaculate in a sterile container provided by the laboratory. Do not use regular condoms or third-party containers.
• Deliver the sample to the laboratory within the time specified in the laboratory instructions. Report any loss of material.

Bacteriological examination of prostate secretion

• If possible, the material is collected before the start of antibacterial or antifungal treatment. If treatment has already been carried out, the timing of the study is agreed with the doctor.
• Tell your urologist about all medications you are taking. Do not stop taking them on your own.
• A urologist collects prostate secretions into a sterile container.
• The obtained material is delivered to the laboratory as quickly as possible, in accordance with its requirements.

Bacteriological examination of gynecological material in women (vagina, cervical canal)

• If possible, the material is collected before the start of antibacterial or antifungal treatment. If you are already taking such drugs, inform your doctor.
• Do not stop taking the prescribed medications on your own. The need and duration of the break before the test is determined by your doctor.
• As recommended by the laboratory, refrain from douching and using vaginal suppositories, creams, gels, and other topical products for 48–72 hours before taking the sample.
• If possible, refrain from sexual contact for 24–48 hours before the test, or follow the laboratory's instructions.
• If you have recently had a gynecological examination, colposcopy, vaginal ultrasound, or other procedures, tell your doctor. If necessary, he or she will determine the optimal time for the sample collection.
• It is not usually necessary to specifically refrain from urinating before taking a vaginal or cervical sample. Separate requirements may apply for urethral samples.
• The material is collected by a medical professional in compliance with the rules of asepsis.

WARNING!

Collection of urogenital material from children and persons under the age of 18 is carried out according to medical indications, upon referral by a doctor, and in compliance with the relevant rules for examining minors.

Importantly! Requirements for preparation, collection, storage, and delivery of material may vary depending on the type of study. To obtain reliable results, follow the laboratory instructions and doctor's recommendations. Do not cancel prescribed medications on your own.

• It is recommended to abstain from sexual contact for 24–48 hours before the test, unless otherwise specified by the laboratory instructions.
• Before the examination, do not use vaginal suppositories, creams, gels, or other topical products, and do not douche for the period recommended by your doctor or laboratory.

Recommended time for conducting the study

• For women of reproductive age: If the test involves taking material from the cervix, it is often recommended to be performed outside of the menstrual period. The optimal day of the cycle depends on the type of test.
• For women taking hormonal contraceptives: The test can usually be performed on any day when there is no bleeding, unless otherwise specified in the test instructions.
• For menopausal women: The test can usually be performed on any day by appointment.

Clinical material for research

Depending on the type of study, the material may be a scraping or smear from the surface of the ectocervix (in particular, the transformation zone) and the cervical canal. If indicated, additional material is taken from a visually altered area of the cervix.

Importantly! The optimal day of the cycle, preparation requirements, and collection site depend on the specific test. Follow your doctor's recommendations and laboratory instructions.

Nasocytogram

• Medications. If you are using nasal medications containing corticosteroids, tell your doctor. Do not stop the prescribed treatment on your own. The need for and duration of the break before the study is determined by your doctor or laboratory.
• Nasal irrigation and drops. Do not rinse your nose or use nasal drops or sprays for 4–5 hours before collecting the sample, unless otherwise recommended by your doctor or laboratory.
• Before taking the material. Do not clean your nose immediately before the procedure unless advised to do so by your healthcare professional. If necessary, a specialist will prepare the nasal cavity before the sample is taken.

Microscopic studies

Demodex testing (epithelial scraping, eyelashes, eyebrows, papule contents)

• 3 days before the examination, it is advisable not to apply cosmetics, creams, lotions, ointments, and local medicinal preparations to the areas from which the material will be taken, unless otherwise agreed with the doctor.
• If the material is taken from eyelashes or eyebrows, do not use eye cosmetics for 24 hours before the examination. Consult your doctor about eye drops and do not cancel the prescribed medications yourself.
• A day before the test, it is advisable not to wet the area of skin from which the scraping is planned, if this is provided for by the laboratory instructions.

Studies on parasitic fungi (epithelial scraping, hair, nails)

• Do not apply creams, ointments, lotions, or other cosmetics to the sample collection area for 3 days prior to the test. Do not use antifungal medications without consulting your doctor.
• Do not apply nail polish, gel polish, or other decorative coatings before the nail examination. If the coating is already applied, check with the laboratory on how to prepare the nails for sample collection.
• A day before the study, it is advisable not to wet the area from which the material will be taken, if this is required by the laboratory instructions.
• Tell your doctor if you have recently used antifungal medications, as this may affect the test result.

Scabies (scabies mite) research

• Before the examination, inform your doctor about the use of anti-itch medications, ointments, creams, and other products on the affected areas of the skin.
• Do not apply cosmetics or topical medications to the areas where the material was taken without consulting your doctor. Do not stop the prescribed treatment on your own.
• The day before the examination, it is advisable not to wet or treat the intensively affected areas of the skin, not to use scrubs, and not to try to remove crusts or scales.
• The material is collected by a medical professional from the areas designated for the study.

Importantly! The preparation rules depend on the type of study, the site of sample collection, and the medications used. To obtain a reliable result, follow the laboratory instructions and your doctor's recommendations. Do not cancel the prescribed medications yourself.

To obtain reliable results from hormonal tests, it is important to follow the preparation recommendations. The rules depend on the type of analysis, the time of sample collection, the medication taken, and the individual characteristics of the patient.

• Before blood sampling, it is advisable to be calm and rest sitting for 15–20 minutes.
• If the study involves determining indicators whose levels change throughout the day, it is usually recommended to donate blood in the morning.
• Whether you need to give your blood on an empty stomach depends on the specific test. If the test requires fasting, it is usually recommended that you do not eat for 8–12 hours, unless the laboratory has provided other instructions. Plain, still water is usually fine to drink.
• Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking. Do not stop treatment on your own.

Prolactin

• It is usually recommended to donate blood in the morning, approximately 2–3 hours after waking up.
• It is advisable to sit quietly for 20–30 minutes before blood sampling, as stress and haste can affect prolactin levels.
• The day before the examination, avoid intense physical exertion, sexual contact, and nipple stimulation.
• Do not palpate your breasts yourself immediately before the examination.
• It is advisable to avoid drinking alcohol before the test. On the day of the test, do not smoke immediately before blood collection.
• If you are taking medications that may affect prolactin levels, tell your doctor. Do not stop taking them on your own.

Testosterone

• It is usually recommended to measure total testosterone in the morning, when its levels are highest.
• For the initial determination of testosterone levels in men, it is often recommended to donate blood on an empty stomach.
• The day before, avoid excessive physical exertion, lack of sleep, and heavy alcohol consumption.
• Before blood sampling, it is advisable to rest and avoid haste and emotional stress.
• Inform your doctor about taking hormonal drugs, anabolic steroids, and other medications that may affect the result.

Aldosterone

• The time of blood sampling, body position before the test, and duration of lying or standing are determined according to the doctor's prescription and laboratory protocol.
• Preparation may include following your usual salt intake or special dietary recommendations. Do not change the amount of salt in your diet before the test.
• Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially diuretics, medications for high blood pressure, and medications that affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
• Do not stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor, as this can be dangerous and affect the results.
• Check with the laboratory before the test whether you need to donate blood on an empty stomach.

ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone)

• Blood is usually taken in the morning, as ACTH levels change throughout the day. The exact time is determined by your doctor.
• Follow the fasting guidelines provided by the laboratory.
• Avoid intense physical exertion and stress before blood collection.
• It is important to follow the instructions for sample collection and transportation, as ACTH is a storage-sensitive indicator.
• Inform your doctor about taking glucocorticoids and other hormonal drugs. Do not cancel treatment yourself.

Erythropoietin

• It is advisable to donate blood in the morning, unless another time is specified by the doctor or laboratory.
• Please clarify whether you need to donate blood on an empty stomach when you sign up for the test.
• Inform your doctor about taking medications that may affect blood formation, as well as about the presence of kidney disease or hemoglobin level disorders, if known.

Cortisol in saliva

• The time of saliva collection is determined by the doctor depending on the purpose of the study. For some tests, the material is collected late in the evening or before bedtime.
• Use a special container or saliva collection kit provided by the laboratory and follow the instructions.
• Do not eat, drink, smoke, chew gum, or brush your teeth for 30–60 minutes before collecting saliva, unless instructed otherwise by the laboratory.
• Avoid getting blood in the sample. If you have bleeding gums or bleeding in the mouth, check with the laboratory whether the sample can be collected at this time.
• Do not allow lipstick, cosmetics, or other foreign substances to get on the sample.
• It is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption and significant physical exertion the day before.
• If you are using hormonal medications, including corticosteroid creams or ointments, tell your doctor and the laboratory. Follow the recommendations to prevent sample contamination.

PSA (prostate-specific antigen: total and/or free)

• PSA blood tests can usually be done during the day. Fasting for PSA alone is usually not necessary unless other tests are scheduled at the same time that require fasting.
• It is recommended to refrain from ejaculation for 48 hours before the test.
• For 48 hours before blood collection, it is advisable to avoid intense cycling and other activities that may irritate the prostate area.
• If a digital rectal examination or other urological procedures are planned, if possible, a blood test for PSA is given before they are performed. After the procedures, the date of the study is agreed with the doctor.
• After a prostate biopsy or other major procedure, PSA levels may remain elevated for some time. Your doctor will determine when it is appropriate to repeat the test.
• Tell your doctor about urinary tract infections, urinary retention, and taking medications to treat prostate disease, including finasteride or dutasteride.

Importantly! Preparation for hormonal tests depends on the specific indicator and purpose of the examination. For aldosterone and ACTH, the conditions of blood sampling are especially important, and for cortisol in saliva, the exact time and correct collection of the material are important. If you have any doubts about preparation, clarify the requirements with the laboratory or your doctor before taking the analysis.

General recommendations

• If possible, the material for the study is collected before the start of antibacterial or antifungal treatment. If treatment has already been carried out, inform the doctor about it. The required interval after the end of therapy depends on the type of study and is determined by the doctor or laboratory.
• It is recommended to refrain from sexual contact for 48–72 hours before sample collection, unless otherwise specified by laboratory instructions.

For women

• Do not douche or use vaginal suppositories, ointments, creams, or gels for 48–72 hours before the test, unless otherwise recommended by your doctor.
• If you are planning a transvaginal pelvic ultrasound or other gynecological procedures, please inform your doctor. If necessary, he or she will determine the optimal sequence of procedures and sample collection.
• If the test involves taking a sample from the vagina or cervix, it is usually performed outside of the menstrual period. The optimal time depends on the type of test and the laboratory's instructions.
• If menstruation begins before the scheduled test, check with the laboratory whether the sample collection needs to be postponed.

For men

• If required by the requirements of a specific study, refrain from ejaculation for 48–72 hours before sample collection.
• Before collecting a urethral specimen, it is usually recommended not to urinate for 2–3 hours or as directed by the laboratory.
• If you are using topical medications or taking antibacterial or antifungal medications, tell your doctor. Do not stop the prescribed treatment on your own.

WARNING!

Collection of urogenital material from children and persons under the age of 18 is carried out according to medical indications, upon referral by a doctor, and in compliance with the relevant rules for examining minors.

Importantly! Preparation requirements may vary depending on the type of test and the material to be collected. Follow the laboratory's instructions and your doctor's recommendations before taking the test.