For Men:
• Test fasted (8 to 12 hours, water only)
• Best time: 8 to 9 AM (especially for testosterone and cortisol)
• Drink 16 to 24 oz water the morning of your test (hydration affects kidney markers, hemoglobin, BUN, and creatinine)
• Avoid heavy training 48 to 72 hours before test
For Women:
• Test fasted (8 to 12 hours, water only)
• Best time: 8 to 9 AM (especially for cortisol)
• Drink 16 to 24 oz water the morning of your test (hydration affects kidney markers, hemoglobin, BUN, and creatinine)
• Avoid heavy training 48 to 72 hours before test
Cycle Timing (if still cycling):
• Day 19 to 21 of cycle for estradiol and progesterone (or 5 to 7 days post-ovulation)
• Day 3 for FSH, LH, baseline estradiol (to assess ovarian reserve and perimenopause)
• If no cycle or irregular: test anytime, note cycle status
Postmenopausal: Test anytime
On Birth Control? Test any day. Expect low-normal LH, FSH, estradiol, and progesterone (this is how birth control works).