Test preparation

How to prepare for your test or scan

Simple steps for blood tests, urine and swab tests, ultrasound scans and minor procedures at Mascot Healthcare, Akoka. Good preparation means accurate results and no need to come back.

  • Lab tests: walk-in, Mon–Sat, 9 AM–5 PM
  • Scans & consultations: by appointment
  • No referral needed for lab tests
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Blood tests

Most blood tests need no preparation. A few need you to fast, that means no food or drinks except plain water.

Fast 8–12 hours

Easiest way: eat dinner, then nothing but water until your test the next morning.

No fasting needed

Before your blood test

  1. The day beforeNo alcohol and no heavy exercise, both can change some results.
  2. The night beforeIf your test needs fasting, start after dinner. Plain water is fine.
  3. On the morningDrink 2–3 glasses of water so your veins are easier to find. Take your usual medicines unless told otherwise.
  4. At the labSit and relax for a few minutes. Tell us if you have ever fainted during a blood test.

Medicines

  • Keep taking blood pressure and heart medicines as normal
  • Diabetes medicines or insulin: take them after a fasting blood test, then eat
  • Stop biotin (vitamin B7) supplements 2 days before thyroid or hormone tests
  • On the pill or hormone treatment? Tell the lab. It can affect hormone results

Avoid

  • Smoking for at least 1 hour before
  • Chewing gum or sweets while fasting
  • Body cream or oil on your arms on the day
  • Stopping any prescribed medicine without your doctor's advice

Read the full fasting blood test guide

Urine, stool & swab tests

We give you a clean container. Here is how to get a good sample.

Urine test

  • The first urine of the morning is best
  • Wash your hands, let the first bit go into the toilet, then catch the middle part in the container
  • Women: try to avoid testing during your period, tell us if you are on it

Stool test (FOB)

  • Collect the sample in the container from the lab, keep it free of urine and water
  • Bring it back as soon as you can, ideally within 2 hours

Swabs (HVS) & Pap smear

  • Book when you are not on your period, days 10–20 of your cycle are ideal for a Pap smear
  • For 48 hours before: no sex, douching, vaginal creams or pessaries
  • A female staff member is available: just ask

HIV & STI tests

  • No fasting needed
  • Testing too soon after exposure can miss an infection, see the window period guide
  • Men: try not to urinate for 1–2 hours before a urine STI test

Ultrasound scans

Scans are By appointment: please book first. Find your scan below.

ScanHow to prepareGood to know
Abdominal scanLiver, gallbladder, pancreas Fast for 6 hours (water is fine). Morning slots are easiest. For a gallbladder scan, fasting from midnight gives the clearest view.
Pelvic scanWomb, ovaries Full bladder: drink 1 litre (about 4 glasses) of water 60–90 minutes before and don't urinate. Wear a top and skirt or trousers so you only need to uncover your lower tummy.
Transvaginal scan (TVS) Empty bladder: use the toilet just before. No fasting. Can be done on any day of your cycle, including during your period.
Pregnancy scan Under about 14 weeks: come with a full bladder. Later in pregnancy: no preparation needed. In early pregnancy you may need a TVS instead. Bring any previous scan reports. Your partner can come in.
Kidney & bladder scan Full bladder: drink 3–4 glasses of water an hour before. No fasting. You can eat normally.
Prostate scan Full bladder: drink 3–4 glasses of water an hour before. Done through the lower tummy.
Scrotal scan No preparation needed. A male sonographer is available on request.
Breast scan No cream, powder or deodorant on the breasts or armpits on the day. Best 7–10 days after your period starts. Wear a two-piece outfit.
Thyroid & neck scan No preparation needed. Leave necklaces at home and wear an open-neck top.
Soft tissue & knee scan No preparation needed. Wear loose clothing that lets you uncover the area easily.
Follicle tracking Empty bladder (it's a transvaginal scan). Starts on a set day of your cycle. We'll give you the dates.

We do standard 2D ultrasound scans. We don't offer 3D/4D or Doppler scans. Scans need no needles or radiation and are safe in pregnancy.

Minor procedures

For example skin tag removal, wart treatment and contraceptive implant or IUD insertion and removal. These are quick outpatient procedures. You go home the same day.

Before you come

  • Eat and drink normally unless we tell you otherwise
  • Tell us if you take blood thinners (e.g. aspirin, warfarin)
  • Tell us about any allergies, including to numbing medicine, plasters or latex
  • Tell us if you are or might be pregnant
  • Removing an implant? Bring your implant card if you have it

On the day

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing
  • Come with someone if you'd like support. They're welcome
  • We'll explain aftercare before you leave, including how to keep the area clean and dry

What to bring

Nothing complicated: this list is all you need.

  • A list of your current medicines and supplements
  • Previous test results or scan reports, if you have them
  • A test or scan request from another doctor, if you have one Not required. You can come without it
  • Glasses or hearing aids if you use them
  • Payment: cash, card, POS or bank transfer We don't accept HMO or insurance. See prices

If you are pregnant

Always tell us if you are or might be pregnant. Ultrasound is safe in pregnancy. Bring your antenatal card or previous scan reports.

Older adults & extra needs

Let us know about mobility needs when you book or arrive. A family member or carer is welcome to come with you, and you can ask us to repeat any instructions.

Common questions

Can't find your answer? WhatsApp us before your visit.

What if I accidentally eat or drink before a fasting test?

Tell the lab staff when you arrive. Depending on what you had and which test it is, we may still do the test, do it another day, or note it on your result. Plain water does not break a fast.

Can I take my regular medicines before a test?

Yes, in most cases. Exceptions: take diabetes medicines and thyroid tablets after a fasting blood test, and skip iron and biotin supplements as advised above. Never stop a prescribed medicine without your doctor's advice.

Do I need a referral or an appointment?

Lab tests are walk-in, Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and you don't need a referral. Ultrasound scans and doctor consultations are by appointment, book online, call 0816 586 6252 or WhatsApp 0903 185 8761.

When will my results be ready?

It depends on the test. Many routine blood tests are ready the same day, while some take a few days. Staff will tell you when to expect your result when you do the test.

What should I do if I feel faint during a blood test?

Tell the staff straight away: we'll help you lie down with your legs raised. Stay seated for 10–15 minutes afterwards and have some water or a sweet drink. If you often faint, bring someone with you.

Can someone come with me?

Yes. A partner, friend or family member can come with you. For some scans and intimate examinations we may ask them to wait outside for part of the visit, your privacy comes first.

My period started: can I still have my test?

Blood tests and most scans can go ahead, including a transvaginal scan. Pap smears, vaginal swabs and urine tests are best moved to a day when you're not bleeding, tell us and we'll advise.

Detailed preparation guides

Not sure how to prepare?

Call 0816 586 6252 or WhatsApp 0903 185 8761 before your visit. We'll tell you exactly what to do.

Book a scan WhatsApp us

Last updated 16 October 2026.