Saliva Collection Instructions

Saliva Hormone Testing
Saliva Collection Instructions
Saliva Testing Methodology
BloodSpot Testing
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Like any laboratory test, the proper collection of a saliva specimen is vital to an accurate result. It is important for you as a provider to clearly understand the instructions enclosed in each kit so you can educate your patients or clients to ensure the best sample is submitted.

Steps to Successful Saliva Collection and Accurate Test Results:

Select the best day for collection, and allow a little extra time on that day.
Wash hands and rinse mouth with cool water before collecting saliva.
Wash your face before bedtime the night before collecting saliva, and do not apply lotions or creams that night or next morning (some may contain interfering substances). Use of routine cosmetics is permitted.
Do not brush or floss your teeth or have dental work done 30 minutes prior to collecting saliva. Slight bleeding from these may alter test results.
Do not eat at least one hour before collecting saliva.
Use of the straws included to “funnel” saliva into each tube is optional.
Each tube should be 3/4 full- bubbles or foam are acceptable.

FILL ALL FOUR TUBES regardless of how many tests are ordered.

Time of Day for Saliva Collection: You must collect saliva four times in one day

PURPLE TUBE should be collected about one hour after your usual time of awakening, before breakfast and brushing your teeth.
GREEN TUBE should be collected before lunch.
ORANGE TUBE should be collected before dinner
BLUE TUBE should be collected before bedtime, preferably at least one hour after dinner.

Guidelines for Women

WOMEN WITH MENSTRUAL CYCLES: Collect saliva between days 19-21 of your cycle, counting the first day of your period as day 1.

POST MENOPAUSAL WOMEN OR WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD A HYSTERECTOMY: Collect saliva any day of the month.

WOMEN TAKING HORMONE REPLACEMENT OR BIRTH CONTROL(REGARDLESS OF MENSTRUAL CYCLE)

Use topical hormones no closer than 12 hours before collecting first sample, but no longer than 24 hours. Do not apply hormones the day of testing. If you use your topical hormone twice a day, skip both doses on the day of testing.
Use sublingual or troche hormones (under tongue) no closer than 36 hours before testing.
Oral hormones (pills) and topical patches should be used as prescribed without change.
IUD use does not interfere with testing.

Guidelines for Men

If you are not taking hormones, you may collect saliva any day.

IF YOU ARE TAKING HORMONES:

Use topical hormones no closer than 12 hours before collecting first sample, but no longer than 24 hours. If you use your topical hormone twice a day, skip both doses on the day of testing.
Use sublingual or troche hormones (under tongue) no closer than 36 hours before testing.

After Collecting the Specimen

Make sure ALL information is entered onto Test Requisition Form (front and back), Specimen Bag, and sign the bottom of form. (Missing information may cause a delay in testing and/or interpretation.)

Front of Requisition Form Back of Requisition Form
Patient name, address, date of birth, sex, time of sample collection, menstrual history (women only).
Test requested is checked.
Patient signature at bottom of page ? Patient name
Patient height and weight
Symptom questionnaire
Hormone therapy (including date and time of last dosage.)
Make sure tubes are tightly SNAPPED closed and put into zip-top bag.
Make sure completed Test Requisition Form is in box with specimens.
Seal box with enclosed sticker. Extra tape is not necessary.
It is preferred (not required) that the sealed specimen kit be placed in a Freezer until able to mail. Please mail as soon as possible. Kit must be received by the lab within 14 days of collection.
Send kit via regular mail or UPS the very next business day—postage is prepaid.