Getting tested for STDs can be very stressful and the idea of doing it at home, while for some it may be more convenient than going to a clinic, can create some uncertainty.
Because of this uncertainty, some people find it difficult to collect a blood sample at home.
If you’re using a Better2Know home test kit, here’s a step-by-step guide to taking your own blood sample.
Get tested for STDs from the comfort of your own home.
What does my home test include?
When you order a test or screen that requires a blood test, you will receive a Better2Know Home Specimen Collection Kit (Blood Specimen). Your kit will contain:
- Three piercing scalpels
- A small tube with a gold tip
- Disinfectant wipes
- Sticking plasters
- Specimen Collection Guide
- Shuttlepouch™
Before starting your test, make sure all of these materials are included in your kit.
How do I get a blood sample?
Follow the instructions below to get the best possible blood sample.
1. Wash your hands and clean a flat surface
Wash your hands with soap and warm water. This will ensure that no contaminants get into the blood sample when you collect it. Dry your hands with a clean towel.
You may also want to have access to a flat surface, such as a table or counter, so that you can place all the test materials in front of you. That way, everything you need will be available.
Collecting blood for this test will be easier if your hands are warmas it increases blood flow. You may want to try rubbing your hands together, holding your hands near a heat source, or immersing your hands in a sink of warm water.
2. Spread everything out in front of you
Before collecting the blood sample, make sure you have all the materials in front of you.
Open the gold tipped tube and put it on the bottom.
3. Sanitize your chosen finger
Open the package of alcohol swab and disinfect the finger you intend to use. We recommend using the middle or ring finger of your non-dominant hand.
Wipe your finger with a clean tissue. Make sure the finger is completely dry, as blood will not form a drop at the puncture site of a wet finger.
4. Use the scalpel
Take one of the three scalpels out of the bag. Twist the top to remove the cap. The scalpel will be ready for use.
Hold the tip of the needle on the tip of your finger. When ready, press the scalpel firmly against the tip of your finger. You will hear a snap and feel a sting in the lanced area.
5. Allow the blood to collect
Once you create a puncture, it may take a few minutes for blood to appear.
Wipe the first drop with a clean tissue.
Holding your hand or arm down, lightly massage the sides of your finger with your other hand. This ‘milking’ process will push the blood to the tip of the finger.
After a few minutes, a drop of blood should form on the tip of your finger.
6. Let the blood fall into the collection tube
Hold the tip of your finger over the opening of the tube and let the drops of blood fall into it. Massage the finger to bring blood to the surface as needed. Do not press too hard, as this may damage the blood cells in your sample.
Fill the tube to the top line along the side of the tube.
If the blood stops flowing and you have not filled the tube to the indicated line, prick another finger and repeat the process.
7. Bind your finger and seal the tube
When you fill the tube to the top line, bandage your finger to stop the bleeding. Screw the gold top back onto the tube to seal it.
Gently swirl the tube 5-10 times.
8. Stick the label on the tube
After the tube is sealed and rotated, affix the appropriate label to the side of the tube. This tag will have your PIN number, initials and date of birth.
Be sure to write the date your sample was collected on the label.
Place the label on your tube by placing it in the middle of the label and wrapping it around the tube.
It is important to label your tube. Unlabeled samples cannot be processed.
9. Place the labeled tube into the Shuttlepouch and then into the box
After labeling the tube, place it in the protective Shuttlepouch™ and place it in the delivery box.
10. Do a final check
Before sending your sample, please check that you have included the following in the delivery box:
- Your labeled blood collection tube
- Any used or unused needles
- The Pathology Application Form found inside the return envelope
After making sure the above items are included in the delivery box, place the box in the envelope, seal it and post it as soon as possible.
Final thoughts
You should receive your results within a few days of posting your sample.
If you have any questions about taking a blood sample, call the number at the top of this page and speak to one of our trained sexual health advisors.
Get tested for STDs at home with a Better2Know Home test kit.
