Stool tests

Stool tests: what is it for and how to prepare?

Stool tests are a method of diagnosis which allows the evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract, detect inflammation, infections, and metabolic disorders. At Medincentre all examinations are conducted on modern equipment while maintaining the highest quality standard.

Main types of stool tests and preparation recommendations

Complete stool test (coprogramme)

The coprogramme examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of stool and helps detect inflammation, digestive disorders, and parasites.

How to prepare:

• 3 days before the test exclude any food products that can influence the colour (beet, spinach, tomatoes)

• Do not use laxatives, rectal suppositories, or sorbents

• Collect a morning stool sample in a sterile container

Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)

Used in identifying occult bleeding in the digestive system, which aids in discovering ulcers, polyps, or tumours.

How to prepare:

• 5-7 days before the test exclude meat products, liver, fish and medication containing iron.

• Refrain from eating products rich in iron like apples or pomegranates.

• Use only a sterile container, preventing urine or water from entering.

Bacteriological stool examination

Examination of the intestinal microflora to detect pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella or Shigella.

How to prepare:

• 5 days before the test, stop taking antibiotics and probiotics.

• Collect the material in the morning into a sterile container, avoiding contact with foreign surfaces. 

• Deliver the sample to the laboratory within 2 hours of collection.

Worm eggs and protozoa test

Allows detection of parasites such as helminths, amoebae, and giardia.

How to prepare:

• No special diets or food product exclusions are needed for the test.

• Collect the stool into a sterile container, maintaining that no external contaminants enter the sample.

Test for dysbacteriosis

Used in identifying the contents of intestinal microflora and deduction of a disbalance. 

How to prepare:

• Stop taking antibiotics 7 days before the test.

• Collect stool in the morning, placing it in a sterile container with a secure lid.

• Deliver the sample to the laboratory within 3 hours of collection.

Advantages of taking a test at Medincentre 

• Modern equipment. Our laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies that provide the highest precision tests.

• Wide spectrum of tests. We conduct all types of stool tests, including specific ones. 

• Comfort and convenience. The process of sample collection is designed with patient comfort in mind.

• Swift results. Examinations are conducted in the shortest possible time.

FAQs

Should you maintain a diet before taking a test?

For a coprogramme it is recommended to maintain normal eating habits 3 days before the test, avoiding consumption of excessively fat or colouring foods.

Can you use old samples?

The samples must be fresh. It is recommended to deliver it into the lab 2-3 hours after collection.

How fast will the results be ready?

Most of the tests are completed in 1-2 work days.