SPECIMEN Q: When is the best time of day to obtain a urine specimen for testing?
For best results, collect urine at about the same time each day, for example, between 10:00AM and 8:00PM. Some women have found that their best specimen is after 12 noon. Do not collect the first urine after waking up because it is concentrated and may give a false positive result. Also, heavy intake of fluids prior to testing will dilute the hormone in your urine. It is suggested that fluid intake be limited for about two hours before urine is collected. Q: How can specimens be stored prior to testing? A: You can store your urine for testing later in the day. Your urine can be stored at room temperature for up to 8 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Do not freeze it. For best results, test your urine on the same day that it is collected. If you refrigerate your urine, let it reach room temperature before testing (about 30 minutes). Do not shake the container. If sediment forms at the bottom of the collection container, allow the sediment to settle. Use only urine from th