Question 1

Which test is most appropriate for my needs?

Accepted Answer

We only offer health tests that we know are thoroughly assessed for reliability and stability, are worthwhile, and clinically relevant. We’ve put our tests into nine categories to make it easier to find what you’re looking for.

If you have any questions, please contact our customer support team via the contact form or by emailing <hello@exploremyhealth.co.uk>

Question 2

How is my blood sample collected?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the test you select and the number and type of biomarkers the test includes. Blood samples are either collected by a finger prick test (which you can do yourself) or by a venous draw straight from a vein which is the more ‘usual’ method to collect blood, (this must be done by a healthcare professional) either at home or at a clinic.

Finger prick test

If you choose a finger prick test (also known as a capillary test), you can collect your own sample by using the lancets and collection tube(s) provided. You can find details and tips, along with a [step-by-step video guide here](https://www.exploremyhealth.co.uk//page/how-to-take-a-test).

Phlebotomy draw

A phlebotomy blood sample (also known as venous) is where blood is taken from the vein using a needle by a medical professional. This can be done in the comfort of your home or at a clinic. The at-home or in-clinic phlebotomy options are available when you select your profile and is subject to an additional charge. Once you’ve placed your order, your confirmation email will include contact details for our phlebotomy partner and on how to book your clinic or at-home appointment.

Question 3

What is a phlebotomy test?

Accepted Answer

Phlebotomy is the practice of taking blood from a patient’s vein. It’s a procedure that requires a qualified healthcare professional. Not all tests can reliably be carried out using a capillary sample so for specific biomarkers and for our comprehensive profiles, a phlebotomy draw is essential to ensure their reliability and clinical accreditation. When making your purchase, you’ll have the flexibility to choose between the convenience of an at-home blood draw or a clinic-based procedure.

Question 4

How do I reschedule my phlebotomy appointment?

Accepted Answer

If you need to reschedule your in-clinic or at-home appointment, please call the telephone number within the confirmation email as soon as you possibly can. The support team will be happy to help you and provide the next available appointment to book. Any changes made within 48 hours of the appointment will incur a new phlebotomy charge.

Question 5

Can I get my blood taken at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can for most of our tests. We’ve teamed up with a UKAS accredited pathology and phlebotomy partner, allowing us to offer at-home appointments. Once your order has been received for an at-home phlebotomy appointment, your details will be passed onto our partner. You will receive information on how to book your appointment in your confirmation email. Call the number provided and our phlebotomy partner will book an appointment that best works for you. The medical professional will bring the test with them and then send the sample to the lab for testing.

Question 6

Why would I need a phlebotomy test?

Accepted Answer

It is vital that we only offer you tests that are reliable, effective, and clinically accredited. Due to specific biomarkers in some of our profiles and for more in-depth profiles, a phlebotomy test is the only way that we and our lab partners can be sure you’ll receive accurate results.

If your test requires a phlebotomy draw, you will be informed of this during your purchase. Some of our finger prick tests also offer you a phlebotomy option as some people prefer to have their blood collected by a medical professional.

Question 7

Where do I keep my kit if I am not ready to use it yet?

Accepted Answer

If you’re not using your kit straight away, please store it in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight.

Please note that the tubes in your kit will have expiry dates and must be used before this date.

Question 8

Are there any specific preparations I need to make before taking the test?

Accepted Answer

You should read the instructions in the kit carefully before taking the test. We’ve made an easy-to-follow ‘how to’ video for finger prick tests, [available here](https://www.exploremyhealth.co.uk//page/how-to-take-a-test).

If your blood test is being done by our phlebotomy partner, they will let you know if there are any specific requirements you should be aware of.

Question 9

Can I eat or drink before taking the test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is fine to eat and drink before taking a test. In fact, we encourage you to drink a large glass of water about an hour before taking a blood test. The only exception would be if you were taking a test to assess your fasting lipids in which case we suggest you don’t eat anything for 10-12 hours before the test. Water is allowed at any point before or after your test.

Question 10

Can I do a test while taking medication?

Accepted Answer

Generally, this is not a problem – although some medications may affect test results. If you are concerned, please check with us first so we can advise on whether to take the test or wait until your course of medication is completed. Contact us by using the form or by emailing <hello@exploremyhealth.co.uk>

Question 11

Would hormonal contraception or HRT affect my test?

Accepted Answer

Most tests are very unlikely to be affected by any hormone supplements you may be taking. If you are taking a combined oral contraceptive or Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) then this will impact your hormone results. Progesterone only contraception such as the ‘mini-pill’ or the progesterone only/hormone coil are unlikely to impact the result. If you are on the combined oral contraceptive and wish to assess your hormones we suggest you measure them after stopping the pill and had 3 cycles/periods.

Question 12

How do I take a test?

Accepted Answer

Our home tests are simple and easy to use, and you can complete your test in minutes. Once the test arrives, follow the instructions carefully to help ensure you take a good-quality sample.

We have created a ‘how to’ video for finger prick blood tests which takes you through every step, here.

We also have some useful tips for taking a blood test:

- Stay hydrated – drink a large glass of water about an hour before taking your test
- Warm your hands – this ensures good blood flow to your fingers before taking your sample
- Don’t squeeze too hard
- Check you have the right amount – fill the sample container to the upper line- this is really important.
- Post your sample – it’s important to return your sample on the same day as collection

Question 13

Can I send my sample before a bank holiday?

Accepted Answer

We don’t recommend that you take your sample on the Friday before a bank holiday weekend. Either take and post the sample between Monday to Thursday before the bank holiday or take and post the test on Tuesday after the bank holiday.

Question 14

How should I dispose of the used lancets?

Accepted Answer

Once used, the lancets will spring back into their plastic casing for health and safety reasons. You can dispose of them in your normal waste bin at home. Or alternatively, when you’ve completed your test, put the lancets back in the plastic sleeve along with the sample(s) and send them back to the lab for proper disposal.

Question 15

How long will it take to get my test results?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 2-3 working days from receipt of your sample at the lab. However, there are some tests that take longer to analyse, such as our Omega 6:3 ratio test. These tests may take 10 working days once the sample is received by our lab.

Question 16

What if I fail to provide an adequate sample?

Accepted Answer

Once your sample has been sent to the lab, the lab will try to test whatever you’ve sent them. If you haven’t followed the instructions or have been unable to provide a sample as advised, then the lab may not be able to get an accurate result or any results.

If you have any questions when taking a test or if you are struggling to take a sample, please contact us and we will try to help so that you can submit a quality sample to the lab.

Any tests sent to the lab that do not show results or accurate results can’t be refunded or sent again. If you contact us before sending your test to the lab we can help and/or send a new kit for £10.

Question 17

How do I get my results?

Accepted Answer

Your test result will be uploaded to your secure health dashboard which you can access via the Explore My Health app.

You will set up an account during checkout. You’ll then need to download the app and use your account details to log in to the app. This gives you access to the secure dashboard.

Results will normally take between 2-3 working days of receipt of your sample at the lab, although some tests such as the Omega 6:3 test, take much longer.

You will receive an email once your test results and comments from a doctor are available.

Question 18

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Accepted Answer

Your results will be reported on by a UK-registered GP. You will be given professional, sensible, and appropriate advice by the team based on your results. We take this extremely seriously. If the team has any concerns they will suggest you follow up with your GP.

Question 19

Should I share my results with my GP?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We recommend sharing results with your own GP. At your appointment, show the GP your results on the app or take a screen grab and send them by email.

Please note, our tests are for people who wish to explore their health. We recommend you speak to your own GP if any of the results are out of normal range or need further investigation.

Question 20

Will my results be sent to my GP?

Accepted Answer

No, we don’t share results with your GP, but we recommend that you share any results that are out of range with your GP. You can take a screen grab of your results and email them to your GP or book an appointment and show them your results via your app.

Question 21

Why are the results different from previous results from my GP?

Accepted Answer

If blood samples are taken at a different time and tested using different labs it is likely that there will be some minor differences in results.

The body is dynamic and certainly not static and many of the biomarkers can vary depending on the time taken, if any food has been consumed or any number of factors. The results will be accurate at the time you took the sample and any concerns will always be flagged.

The lab we use has a UKAS accreditation and processes both NHS and private samples.

Question 22

When is it best to collect and return my sample?

Accepted Answer

The best days to take and return a sample are Monday to Thursday. We recommend taking and posting on the same day, before the Royal Mail collection time. The sooner we can test your sample, the better the quality of the results.

Royal Mail delivers to our lab Monday to Saturday and the lab tests samples 7 days a week.

Question 23

I'm having trouble taking a finger prick blood sample, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

The kits are designed to be easy to use but some people find it harder to take blood via a finger prick test than others. Often the reasons for the difficulties are circulation and/or dehydration.

If you have poor circulation (your hands are often cold) you will need to warm your hands before starting. A good way is to soak them in warm water for a few minutes. It also helps to get the blood flowing with some arm and hand exercises.

When taking the blood sample, try massaging from the middle of your palm all the way to the tip of your finger.

Being well-hydrated is also important. We recommend everyone drinks a large glass of water about an hour before collecting a sample.

Question 24

I've been unsuccessful in collecting my sample, can I order another kit?

Accepted Answer

If you have been unsuccessful in collecting the correct amount of blood or in taking another type of test, you can order a replacement kit at a cost of £10. Simply contact our customer support team by emailing <hello@exploremyhealth.co.uk> and request a replacement kit. Please include your original order number within the email.

Question 25

Can I take a test if I've recently had an infection or vaccination?

Accepted Answer

We recommend waiting one week after infection or vaccination as this can provoke an immune and inflammatory response which can affect your results.

Question 26

Will supplements affect my test results?

Accepted Answer

You can continue to take your test if you are taking supplements. We recommend taking samples while following your normal routine. The results of your test may indicate that you need to increase or decrease supplements. If you would like to know what your results would be if you weren't taking supplements, you would need to stop taking them for 6 weeks.

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