Before your sampling

Different blood tests and examinations require different preparations. Some of our health tests and health checks require fasting before taking the sample or that the sample is submitted at a certain time of day. When it comes to X-rays, such as MRI scans, it is important that you have provided the required information. To ensure that everything goes smoothly during sampling or examination, it is therefore important that you are prepared.

Preparing before your blood test

Information about MRI scans can be found further down.

  1. Fast for at least 10 hours
    Many of our tests require fasting. This means you must not eat or drink anything except water for 10 hours before your blood draw. Black coffee (without milk or sugar) is also allowed. If your appointment is at 8:00 AM, you should begin fasting from 10:00 PM the night before.
    👉 Read more about which tests require fasting
  2. Take the test before 10 AM
    Some markers vary throughout the day, so to ensure accurate results, the test should be taken before 10:00 AM. In some cases, you may also need to have been awake for a few hours beforehand. Specific instructions for your test are provided on the test page and when you activate your referral.
    👉 See the test page under the "Before your test" tab.
  3. Rest for 15 minutes before the test
    Please rest for 15 minutes at the testing location before your blood draw. Stress or physical activity can affect your test results.
  4. Bring valid identification
    Valid ID is required. You must have a Swedish personal identity number or coordination number. Your referral is sent digitally – there is no need to bring a printed copy.

Medications & supplements

  • Take any morning medication after the test.
  • Wait two weeks after finishing an antibiotic treatment before getting tested.
  • Hormonal medications may affect your results even after the treatment has ended.
  • Supplements and vitamins can influence your test results – your values will reflect what is currently in your body.

If you are unsure about how your medication might affect your results, please consult your physician.

Preparing for your MRI scan

  1. Metal in your body may affect the scan
    You must inform us if you have any metal in your body, such as a pacemaker, insulin pump, implant, clips, or metal fragments. Certain metals may prevent you from undergoing the scan. This information should be provided digitally when activating your referral in our test results service.
  2. No metal on your body
    It is important to remove all jewelry, piercings, hairpins, hearing aids, glasses, watches, and clothing with metal (e.g., zippers or underwire bras). You may need to change into special clothes before the examination.
  3. The scan is done in a narrow tunnel
    The MRI machine is shaped like a tunnel. If you suffer from claustrophobia, please inform the staff beforehand – you may be offered a mild sedative. In some cases, an open MRI may be used.
  4. Stay still throughout the scan
    It's important to lie completely still to ensure clear images. The scan usually takes between 15 and 90 minutes, depending on what is being examined.

Contrast agents may be used

In some cases, a contrast agent is injected into your bloodstream to enhance image quality. This is safe for most people, but please inform us if you have kidney disease, have had a reaction to contrast agents before, or are pregnant.

What to expect during the scan

  • You will lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine.
  • The machine makes loud noises – you’ll receive ear protection or headphones with music.
  • You will be monitored at all times and can speak with the staff via intercom.

If you have any questions or are unsure whether you can undergo the scan, please contact the clinic well in advance of your appointment.