Collecting your sample: saliva samples

Your Medichecks cortisol test measures the levels of cortisol in your saliva at set times of the day. Following the instructions carefully will help make sure your results are accurate and useful.

Before You Start

• Read all instructions first so you know what’s involved.

• Check the timings: You’ll need to collect samples at four specific points (see below).

• Avoid food, drink, smoking, and brushing your teeth for at least 60 minutes before each sample. Water is fine.

• Hands and mouth should be clean. Wash your hands with soap and rinse your mouth with water (spit out, don’t swallow).

Collecting Each Sample

1. The test requires four samples taken at:

   On waking (within 30 minutes of getting up)

   Midday (12:00 PM)

   4 pm

   Before bed

2. Check your Order Complete email

   This will have been sent to you shortly after purchasing your test, and contains information for how to prepare.

3. Wait at least 60 minutes after eating, brushing your teeth, or taking oral medication. 

   10 minutes before collecting your sample, rinse your mouth with water for up to 5 seconds.

4. Wash your hands

   Make sure you have not applied any creams or ointments to your hands. 

5. Remove the blue lid from the tube to expose the sponge

6. Place the sponge into your mouth (e.g. the side of your cheek) and keep it there for 2 minutes without chewing.

   If the sponge remains dry, leave this in your mouth for another 2 minutes until saturated.

7. Place the sponge back into the tube.

   Place the blue lid on the tube, pressing tightly to secure it.

8. Clearly fill in your details on the sample label attached to the tube. Repeat steps 1-8 for each collection.

After Collecting All Samples

• Ensure that all samples are fully labelled. 

• Place all sealed tubes in the safety bag, do not remove the absorbent pad. Seal the bag tightly.

• Place the safety bag into the box, and the box into the plastic return envelope, along with the laboratory request form.

Important Reminders

• Follow the timing exactly – cortisol levels change throughout the day, so accurate timing is key.

• Don’t eat, drink (other than water), smoke, or brush your teeth right before collecting.

• If you’re taking medication, check whether it might affect your results.