Prep for your blood draw.
Accurate labs start 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 48 hours before. Avoid sexual activity for 48 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.
Medications guide.
What to continue, skip, or stop before your labs.
NSAIDs (Advil, ibuprofen)
Stop 48 hours before
Thyroid Meds
Skip morning of draw, take after
Testosterone Injections
Hold 3 days before
Estrogen & Progesterone
Continue as normal
Before you leave.
Run through this checklist the morning of your appointment.
Not sure about something?
If anything is unclear or you're unsure how to prepare, just ask. We're happy to help.
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