Preparation for Whole Body MRI (+ Checkup)
The Day Before Your Check-up
Fasting
Fasting requirements vary depending on your appointment type. Please follow the row that matches your booking. If a colonoscopy is part of your appointment, the colonoscopy row applies.
| Appointment Type | Start Fasting | Water Allowed Until |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Body MRI (no colonoscopy/checkup) | 8 hours before | 8 hours before appointment |
| Whole Body MRI + Checkup | 8:00 PM (day before) | Until midnight |
| Includes Colonoscopy (AM) | 1:00 PM (day before) | Until 3 hours before appointment |
| Includes Colonoscopy (PM) | 4:00 PM (day before) | Until 3 hours before appointment |
- If you have indigestion, eat only porridge and finish by 6:00 PM.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and overexertion. Get a full night's sleep.
Medications
- If you are under ongoing medical treatment, consult your doctor before the checkup.
- If you are scheduled for a gastroscopy or colonoscopy, and you take blood thinners (Aspirin, Coumadin/Warfarin, Plavix, etc.), consult your doctor first — biopsy may not be possible if taken within the last 7 days.
Female Patients
- Urine and cervical cancer tests should be done 5–7 days after menstruation ends.
- Avoid intercourse or vaginal suppositories 24 hours before a cervical cancer test.
- Mammography and breast ultrasound are restricted for clients who are breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
- Confirm pregnancy status before your checkup. Most tests can be performed during pregnancy except X-rays. Health checkups are generally not recommended during pregnancy, as standard prenatal care covers most of the same screenings.
On the Day of Your Check-up
Fasting (All Clients)
No gum, smoking or juice during fasting.
- Nothing to eat from the start fasting time in the table above, and no water past the time in the water allowed column.
Medications
- Blood pressure: Take your medication 3 hours before your appointment, or immediately upon waking with a small sip of water. If blood pressure is too high on arrival, endoscopy may not be performed.
- Diabetes: Take insulin and diabetes medication after your checkup, not before.
Ultrasound (Prostate / Pelvic / Uterus)
- Arrive without urinating — please hold your first morning urine.
Allergies
- If you have had allergic reactions to contrast agents, anesthetics, or other medications in the past, inform the clinic staff upon arrival.
Valuables
- Do not bring valuables or accessories.
If You Have Booked a Colonoscopy (Add-On)
Colonoscopy is included in the Cancer focus area, and can also be added to any booking on its own. If either applies to you, start these steps several days before you fly — the bowel prep kit has to be collected in person.
Pick Up Your Bowel Prep Medication You must collect your bowel preparation kit before your appointment date. Kits are available approximately 3–7 days in advance.
Your kit must be picked up directly from the clinic. Pickup location varies depending on your clinic — the confirmed location will be included in your confirmation email.