How at-home testing works
Four steps, start to finish. Most of it happens at your kitchen table.
1. Choose and order your test
Pick the panel that matches what you want to know. Every kit lists exactly which markers it measures, so you can check before you buy. Payment is taken at checkout and your kit is dispatched in plain, unbranded packaging.
2. Take your sample
Most panels use a finger-prick blood sample. The kit contains a lancet, a collection device, step-by-step instructions and a prepaid return envelope. Sexual health screens may use a urine sample or a swab depending on what is being tested.
Register the unique reference number printed on your kit before you post it. That is what links your sample to you — and it is why samples cannot be traced back to you by anyone at the laboratory.
3. Post it back
Drop the prepaid envelope in any post box. Try to post early in the week so your sample is not sitting in the postal system over a weekend — blood samples degrade, and a delayed sample may need to be repeated.
4. A GP reviews your results
Once the laboratory reports, a GP registered with the Irish Medical Council reviews your results in the context of the information you gave us. You receive your full results along with a plain-English explanation of what they mean and what to do next.
GP review is included in the price of every kit. It is not an upsell and it is not optional — we do not release raw numbers without interpretation.
If something is abnormal
You will be told clearly, and told what to do. Depending on the finding that may mean repeating the test, seeing your own GP, or being referred for further investigation. Some results — certain infections in particular — carry public health notification duties in Ireland, and we will explain that to you if it applies.
Things worth knowing before you order
- Fasting. Some panels, including lipids and glucose, are more accurate fasted. The kit will tell you if that applies.
- Timing in your cycle. Several female hormone markers only make sense on specific days of your cycle. Check the kit instructions first.
- Medication and supplements. Biotin supplements can interfere with some assays. Tell us what you are taking when you register your kit.
- Window periods. Sexual health tests are not reliable immediately after exposure. Each test lists its window period — testing too early gives false reassurance.