How to Prepare for Your Lab Appointment
Getting accurate lab results starts with a little preparation. These are general guidelines—your provider may give you specific instructions based on your situation.
General Preparation
Follow these steps to ensure accurate results.
🍽️ Fasting
- No food for 10–12 hours before your draw
- Water is fine (and encouraged)
- Black coffee or tea is okay (no creamer or sugar)
💧 Hydration
- Drink plenty of water 1–2 hours before your draw
- Makes your veins easier to find
- Avoid alcohol the night before
🚫 Avoid
- Heavy or fatty meals the night before
- NSAIDs (Advil, ibuprofen) for 48 hours before
- Alcohol the night before
For Men
Additional considerations for accurate hormone testing.
📅 Timing
- Cortisol, testosterone, or prolactin: Schedule between 7:30–9:30 AM
💉 Testosterone Injections
- Hold injections for 3 days before your labs
- Schedule your draw for the morning of your injection day, before dosing
- Resume after your lab
🔬 PSA Testing
- Avoid heavy workouts for 24 hours before
- Avoid sexual activity for 24 hours before
For Women
Timing matters for accurate hormone results.
💊 Hormone Medications
- Estrogen & progesterone: Continue as normal
- Testosterone injections: Hold for 3 days before labs
📅 Timing
- Cortisol, testosterone, or prolactin: Schedule between 7:30–9:30 AM
- If cycling: Schedule on Day 3 of your period
- Not cycling/postmenopausal: Follow fasting and hydration steps
If your cycle doesn't line up with your appointment: Don't cancel online. Text or call us at (949) 997-3988 and we'll help you figure out what to do.
Medications Guide
What to continue, skip, or stop before your labs.
When in doubt, ask us. Text or call before your appointment if you're unsure about any medication.
Before You Leave
Run through this checklist the morning of your appointment.
✓ Day-Of Checklist
Questions?
If anything is unclear or you're unsure how to prepare, just ask. We're happy to help.
(949) 997-3988Text or call anytime
Ready to Book?
If you found this page but haven't scheduled yet, start with a Range Assessment. Labs, symptoms review, and a written plan in under a week.
Already a patient? Call or text (949) 997-3988 to schedule.
1901 Westcliff Dr Suite 10, Newport Beach, CA
Upstairs from Range Sports Therapy