Understanding your gut microbiome can provide valuable insights into your digestive health, immunity, and overall well-being. If you’re preparing to take a gut microbiome test, one of the most important steps is collecting a proper stool sample. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to collect a stool sample safely and correctly to ensure accurate results.
What Is a Gut Microbiome Test?
A gut microbiome test analyzes the bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in your digestive system using a stool sample. The results can help identify imbalances that may be linked to digestive issues, immune health, or even mood and mental health.
What You’ll Need
Most gut microbiome test kits come with the necessary tools, which typically include:
- Disposable sampling swab
- Sample collection tube (containing preservative solution)
- Disposable gloves
- Disposable toilet seat cover (paper)
- Sample protective bag
- Sample return mailer bag
- Sampling instructions
- Gut microbiome health questionnaire
Always read and follow the instructions included in your test kit, as they may vary slightly depending on the provider.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Collect a Stool Sample
Step 01
Wash your hands before sampling. If needed, wear the disposable gloves provided in the kit. If using a squat toilet, place the disposable toilet seat cover at the bottom of the toilet (it is recommended to empty your bladder before placing the seat cover).
Step 02
Open the disposable sampling swab package and take out the swab. Use the swab to collect an adequate amount of stool (about the size of a mung bean) from the toilet or the seat cover. Avoid contact with other substances (such as urine or other secretions) to prevent contamination.
Step 03
Open the cap of the sample collection tube. Break off the tip of the sampling swab and leave the swab tip with the sample inside the tube.
Step 04
Tightly close the sample collection tube. Shake the tube gently from side to side for 10 seconds until the stool and the preservation solution are evenly mixed and the color changes. Place the sample collection tube into the sample protection bag and seal it.
Step 05
Put the sealed sample protection bag into the sample return bag together with the completed “Gut Microbiome Health Questionnaire”, and send it back.
Precautions
- Do not ingest the preservation solution in the sample tube.
- If accidentally ingested, seek medical attention at the nearest hospital immediately.
- Keep the sampling kit out of reach of children.
Related MEIDIKE GENE Products
For laboratories, researchers, or test kit providers, MEIDIKE GENE offers a wide range of stool sample collection products:
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Stool Collection Kits – Complete kits including container, swab, preservation solution, and transport bag
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Stool Sample Preservation Solution – Ensures DNA/RNA stability during shipping
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Sterile Stool Collection Swabs with Breakpoint – Ideal for DNA extraction and PCR testing
🔗 Explore our full product range at https://www.medicoswab.com/products/
