Lab Appointment Guidance for Menstruating Members

If you menstruate, there are a few important things to know about timing your Levels Labs appointment and preparing for the urinalysis portion.

Good news: one appointment

Levels Labs appointments for menstruating members are completed in a single visit. You do not need to schedule two separate appointments.

Timing for hormone testing (Comprehensive Panel)

Days 2 to 4 of your menstrual cycle typically provide the most accurate hormone results.

If your appointment is outside days 2 to 4

Make note of where you are in your cycle.
Consider rescheduling to days 2 to 4 if possible.
Your physician can use cycle timing as context when interpreting results.

Birth control considerations

Hormonal birth control can impact hormone test results. This is normal and expected.

Make note of which birth control method you’re using.

Urinalysis guidance

Your lab appointment includes a urinalysis (urine test). If you’re menstruating during your appointment, menstrual blood can contaminate the urine sample and affect test accuracy.

To reduce the chance of contamination

Consider using a menstrual cup, disc, tampon, or another period product that helps contain menstrual flow during your appointment.

What to do

Insert your chosen period product before providing the urine sample.
Follow the lab’s instructions for collecting the sample.
The product helps prevent menstrual blood from mixing with the urine.

Most labs prefer members not to provide urine samples on days 1 to 3 of heavy flow. With proper precautions, testing can still be accurate.

All other preparation tips still apply

Everything in the main preparation guide still applies to you:

Fast for 8 hours (water only)
Hydrate well
Pause supplements for 48 to 72 hours
Go easy on workouts
Bring your requisition form and ID

Learn more here: How to Prepare for Your Lab Appointment