How to Collect Saliva and Blood Spot Samples at Home

This kit uses two sample types: saliva tubes and a dried blood spot card. The number of samples and collection timing vary by panel, so check the test code on your requisition first. This article summarises the Saliva + Blood Spot Collection Instructions; keep the full guide and your kit instructions beside you.

Check your panel and prepare

The guide gives a separate schedule for each panel. Its first saliva sample should begin within 30 minutes of waking, and the blood spot should be collected within one hour of waking. Some panels have cycle-specific timing, and fasting may apply if your panel includes cardiometabolic tests such as insulin or triglycerides. Follow the directions for your exact panel rather than applying a general schedule.

Three days before collection, the guide advises avoiding anti-ageing or anti-wrinkle facial creams and biotin (vitamin B7) products. It also has specific instructions for hormone users. Record hormone use on your requisition and do not stop prescribed hormones without advice from your prescriber. If you take medicines or supplements, check the guide and ask your healthcare professional or laboratory if you are unsure about timing.

Collect the saliva samples

For the first sample, wash and dry your hands, rinse your mouth with water, then wait five minutes before collecting into the large 10 mL tube. Use the timetable in your kit for any later samples; smaller 5 mL tubes are used for additional collection times if applicable.

Let saliva pool in your mouth before transferring it. Fill each tube at least halfway, not counting bubbles, cap it securely and label it with your name, date and collection time. The guide says to avoid food, drinks other than water, and brushing your teeth for at least two hours before later saliva collections. Freeze saliva samples that will not be shipped within 24 hours.

Collect the dried blood spot

Write your name, collection date and time on the card before washing your hands. Wash and dry your hands, warm them, and avoid touching the filter paper. Clean the side of a finger with the alcohol pad and let it air-dry. Use the supplied lancet as directed, wipe away the first drop, then gently milk the finger with your hand below your waist.

Place one drop in the centre of each circle without overlapping. The blood should soak through the card and be visible on the back. Leave the card open to dry for at least four hours, then close it and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Return the samples

Complete the requisition form and other paperwork. Pack the samples and documents in the kit box, then use the return packaging and carrier specified for your kit. Make sure the blood spot card is dry before packing and follow the kit guide for the exact saliva timetable and any extra samples.

Explore the collection and test kits

Browse the Multi Hormone Profile Tests collection, or see the Male Comprehensive Hormone & CardioMetabolic Test and Female Comprehensive Hormone & CardioMetabolic Test. Both product pages list saliva and dried blood spot as sample types. Check each kit’s own instructions for its panel-specific requirements.

This article covers specimen collection only. It is not medical advice or an interpretation of test results. Follow the kit guide and contact the laboratory or a qualified healthcare professional if you are unsure about timing, medicines or collection.