Blood Test Guides
Clear, honest answers to the questions people ask us most, from fasting and results to choosing the right test.
Do I need to fast before a blood test?
Usually not. Most blood tests, including cholesterol, HbA1c, thyroid and vitamin D, are just as accurate if you’ve…
Read guide →How long do blood test results take?
At our Croydon clinic, most results are ready within 1 to 3 days of your appointment. Here’s what affects the timing…
Read guide →Private blood test vs NHS: which should you choose?
NHS blood tests are free when your GP or hospital team asks for them. A private blood test lets you choose your own…
Read guide →Understanding your blood test results
A reference range shows where results fall for most healthy people. Being just outside it is common and often harmless.…
Read guide →Nervous of needles? How to make your blood test easier
Feeling anxious about needles is very common, and you’re not alone. A few simple steps can make your blood test quicker…
Read guide →Which blood test do I need?
Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple guide to choosing the right blood test for common symptoms and goals. If…
Read guide →Blood tests for tiredness: what to check
Feeling exhausted for weeks? Tiredness has many causes, from sleep and stress to anaemia, thyroid problems and low…
Read guide →Blood tests for hair loss and thinning hair
Hair shedding and thinning can be linked to thyroid problems, anaemia, low vitamin D or hormone changes. These blood…
Read guide →Cholesterol levels explained
High cholesterol has no symptoms, so a blood test is the only way to know your numbers. Here’s what the results mean…
Read guide →When to have an STI blood test after exposure
Blood tests for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis need time after exposure to give a reliable result. This is known as the…
Read guide →When to have a hormone blood test
Many female hormone tests need to be taken on a particular day of your cycle to be meaningful. Here’s when to book each…
Read guide →Blood tests for perimenopause and menopause
If you’re over 45 with typical symptoms, you usually don’t need a blood test to diagnose perimenopause. But tests can…
Read guide →Book your blood test
From £55 at our Shirley Road clinic in Croydon. Results usually in 1–3 days, no GP referral.