Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Bowel Health Test

Bowel Health Test

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Detects hidden blood in stool — a key early warning sign
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults aged 18 and over
  • ✔️ Results available within minutes at home
  • ✔️ Uses clinically recognised guaiac-based detection method
  • ✔️ Affordable at-home screening between NHS appointments

Price Checker

Regular price £9.99
Sale price £9.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is a Bowel Health Test and How Can It Help You?

 

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, yet when caught early, survival rates are significantly higher. The bowel health test from Newfoundland gives you a simple, discreet way to check for hidden (occult) blood in your stool from the comfort of home — no clinic visit required. According to the NHS, bowel cancer screening helps detect the disease at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be successful. At just £9.99, this kit makes routine monitoring genuinely accessible.

Hidden blood in the stool is not always visible to the naked eye. That is precisely why a dedicated test matters. You might feel perfectly well and still have early changes in your bowel that are worth investigating. If you already manage a digestive condition, you may also find our IBS and Cramps range useful alongside regular monitoring.

 

How Does the Bowel Health Test Work?

 

The Newfoundland Bowel Health Test uses a guaiac-based chemical reaction — the same principle used in NHS bowel cancer screening programmes — to detect the presence of haemoglobin (a component of blood) in a stool sample. When blood is present, even in tiny amounts invisible to the eye, the reagent in the test card produces a colour change that indicates a positive result.

  • A small stool sample is collected using the applicator provided in the kit.
  • The sample is applied to the designated area on the test card.
  • A developer solution is added to activate the guaiac reaction.
  • The result is read within the timeframe specified in the instructions — typically 30–60 seconds.
  • A colour change (usually blue or green) indicates the presence of blood.

 

Who Should Consider Using a Home Bowel Test Kit?

 

This test is suitable for adults who want to monitor their bowel health proactively. The NHS recommends that everyone aged 50 to 74 participates in regular bowel cancer screening, but you do not have to wait for an NHS invitation to take action. This kit is particularly relevant if you have noticed any changes in your bowel habits, experience unexplained abdominal discomfort, or have a family history of bowel cancer or polyps.

  • Adults aged 50 and over seeking routine bowel health monitoring.
  • Anyone with a personal or family history of bowel polyps or colorectal cancer.
  • People experiencing unexplained changes in bowel habits lasting more than three weeks.
  • Those who want to supplement NHS screening between invitation cycles.

 

How Does the Newfoundland Bowel Health Test Compare to NHS Screening?

 

Feature Newfoundland Bowel Health Test NHS Bowel Cancer Screening (FIT)
Test type Guaiac faecal occult blood test (gFOBT) Faecal immunochemical test (FIT)
Availability Available to buy at any time, any age Sent automatically to those aged 50–74
Cost £9.99 Free on the NHS
Result turnaround Within minutes at home Results sent by post (several weeks)

 

How Should You Store the Bowel Health Test and Is It Clinically Reliable?

 

Store the kit below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not use the test beyond its printed expiry date, as the guaiac reagent degrades over time and may produce unreliable results. Keep it out of reach of children. A bowel health test used correctly and within its shelf life provides a reliable initial screen — but it is not a diagnostic tool. A positive result always requires follow-up with your GP, who may refer you for colonoscopy or further investigation. If you are also managing related digestive symptoms, exploring our Haemorrhoids and Piles range may be relevant, as haemorrhoids are a common non-cancerous cause of rectal bleeding.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Bowel Health Test specifications
Treatment category Bowel health screening / diagnostic test
Mechanism of action Guaiac-based faecal occult blood detection
Effective for Detection of hidden blood in stool samples
Suitable for Adults aged 18 and over
Active ingredient Guaiac resin reagent
Pack sizes Single-use test kit
UK classification General Sale / Medical Device
Preparation Test card with developer solution
Route of administration Stool sample collection (in vitro diagnostic)

Specifications of Bowel Health Test

 

What Is the Bowel Health Test and What Is It Used For?

 

The Newfoundland Bowel Health Test is an over-the-counter, home-use diagnostic test designed to detect the presence of occult (hidden) blood in stool samples. It is used as an initial screening tool for bowel conditions including colorectal cancer, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, and other causes of gastrointestinal bleeding. The NHS advises that detecting bowel cancer early — before symptoms develop — significantly improves treatment outcomes. This test does not diagnose any condition; it indicates whether further medical investigation may be needed.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the Bowel Health Test?

 

Before using this test, read the full instructions carefully. Certain factors can affect the accuracy of your result. You should be aware of the following contraindications and precautions:

  • Do not use during menstruation — menstrual blood can cause a false positive result.
  • Avoid testing if you have active haemorrhoids that are bleeding, as this may also produce a false positive.
  • Do not use if you have recently had a colonoscopy or bowel preparation — wait at least two weeks.
  • Some foods high in peroxidase activity (e.g. raw red meat, broccoli, turnips) may interfere with guaiac-based tests — follow any dietary guidance in the kit instructions.
  • Certain medicines including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin may cause minor gastrointestinal bleeding, potentially affecting results.
  • Do not use this test as a substitute for GP-referred investigation if you have persistent symptoms.

Known factors that may interact with or affect test accuracy:

  • NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen) — may cause gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding.
  • Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — may increase risk of GI bleeding.
  • High-dose vitamin C (ascorbic acid) — may inhibit the guaiac reaction and produce a false negative in some test formats.

 

How Should You Use the Bowel Health Test?

 

Using this kit correctly is essential for an accurate result. Follow these steps carefully and do not rush the process. If you are unsure at any stage, contact your pharmacist before proceeding.

  1. Read all instructions in the kit leaflet before you begin.
  2. Collect a stool sample using the applicator provided — you do not need a large amount.
  3. Apply the sample to the designated area on the test card as directed.
  4. Add the developer solution to the test card window.
  5. Wait the specified time (typically 30–60 seconds) before reading the result.
  6. Interpret the result according to the colour guide in the instructions.
  7. Dispose of the used test kit safely in household waste — do not flush.
Indication Age Group Number of Tests Frequency
Routine bowel health screening Adults 50+ 1 test kit As directed by GP or annually
Symptomatic monitoring Adults 18+ 1 test kit As advised by a healthcare professional

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the Bowel Health Test?

 

As a diagnostic test kit rather than a medicine, the Bowel Health Test does not cause pharmacological side effects. However, there are important considerations around the psychological and clinical impact of results. If you are concerned about your mental wellbeing following a positive result, speak to your GP. You may also find it helpful to explore our Vitamins and Supplements range to support general health alongside any ongoing monitoring.

  • Common considerations:
    • Anxiety or distress following a positive result.
    • Uncertainty while awaiting GP follow-up.
  • Less common considerations:
    • False positive results leading to unnecessary further investigation.
    • False negative results providing false reassurance — a negative result does not rule out bowel disease.

 

How Should You Store the Bowel Health Test?

 

Correct storage ensures the test reagents remain effective up to the expiry date. Poor storage conditions can degrade the guaiac reagent and compromise accuracy. If you are also managing other health conditions at home, our Electrical Health and Diagnostic range includes additional monitoring tools that may complement your health routine.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near moisture.
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
  • Do not freeze the test kit.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy a bowel health test online in the UK?

You can buy the Newfoundland Bowel Health Test directly from Cured Pharmacy online for £9.99. No prescription is needed, and it is dispatched discreetly to your home address. It is one of the most affordable home bowel screening options available over the counter in the UK.

How does the Bowel Health Test detect blood in stool?

The test uses a guaiac-based chemical reaction that responds to the peroxidase activity of haemoglobin — a protein found in blood. When even a tiny amount of blood is present in the stool sample, the reagent produces a visible colour change. This is the same principle used in NHS bowel cancer screening programmes.

How do I use the Bowel Health Test step by step?

Collect a small stool sample using the applicator provided, then apply it to the test card as directed. Add the developer solution and wait the specified time — usually 30 to 60 seconds — before reading the result against the colour guide. Always read the full instructions before you begin to ensure accuracy.

What does a positive result on the Bowel Health Test mean?

A positive result means hidden blood has been detected in your stool sample. This does not automatically mean you have bowel cancer — common non-cancerous causes include haemorrhoids, anal fissures, and polyps. However, you should contact your GP promptly so they can arrange further investigation such as a colonoscopy.

What does a negative result on the Bowel Health Test mean?

A negative result means no hidden blood was detected in the sample tested on that occasion. It does not completely rule out bowel disease, as some conditions bleed intermittently. If you have persistent symptoms such as changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss, see your GP regardless of the result.

Who is eligible to use the Bowel Health Test?

The test is suitable for adults aged 18 and over. It is particularly relevant for those aged 50 and above, people with a family history of bowel cancer or polyps, and anyone experiencing unexplained bowel symptoms. It is not intended for use in children. If you have been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, speak to your GP before using a home test.

Can I use the Bowel Health Test during my period?

No — it is recommended that you avoid testing during menstruation, as menstrual blood can contaminate the stool sample and produce a false positive result. Wait until your period has fully ended before collecting a sample. This applies to any guaiac-based faecal occult blood test.

Can food or medicines affect my Bowel Health Test result?

Yes. Certain foods with high peroxidase activity — such as raw red meat, broccoli, and turnips — may interfere with guaiac-based tests and produce a false positive. High-dose vitamin C supplements may cause a false negative in some test formats. NSAIDs like ibuprofen can cause minor GI bleeding that may affect results. Check the kit instructions for specific dietary guidance before testing.

How accurate is the Newfoundland Bowel Health Test?

Guaiac-based faecal occult blood tests are clinically recognised screening tools used within NHS bowel cancer screening programmes. However, no home test achieves 100% sensitivity or specificity. False positives and false negatives can occur, which is why any abnormal result — or persistent symptoms despite a negative result — should always be discussed with your GP.

What are the alternatives to the Bowel Health Test?

Alternatives include the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, which sends FIT (faecal immunochemical test) kits to eligible adults aged 50 to 74. FIT tests are generally considered more sensitive than guaiac-based tests for detecting haemoglobin. For more detailed investigation, your GP can refer you for colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy. You can also explore our Electrical Health and Diagnostic range for other home monitoring options.

How often should I use a home bowel health test?

The NHS recommends bowel cancer screening every two years for those aged 50 to 74. If you are using a home test kit outside of the NHS programme, your GP can advise on the appropriate frequency based on your personal risk factors and symptoms. Do not use repeated testing as a substitute for professional medical assessment if you have ongoing symptoms.

Is the Bowel Health Test the same as the NHS bowel cancer screening test?

Not exactly. The NHS currently uses a FIT (faecal immunochemical test), which detects human haemoglobin specifically and is generally considered more sensitive. The Newfoundland Bowel Health Test uses a guaiac-based method, which is an established and widely used screening approach but differs slightly in its detection mechanism. Both tests detect hidden blood in stool as an indicator of potential bowel conditions.

What should I do after getting a positive bowel health test result?

Contact your GP as soon as possible and inform them of your positive result. Do not panic — many positive results are caused by non-cancerous conditions such as haemorrhoids or polyps. Your GP will likely refer you for further investigation, which may include a colonoscopy. Early follow-up is always the right course of action. If you experience symptoms like rectal bleeding alongside your result, you can also browse our Haemorrhoids and Piles range for supportive products while awaiting your appointment.

Can I use the Bowel Health Test if I have IBS?

Yes, adults with IBS can use this test, but it is important to understand that IBS itself does not typically cause rectal bleeding. If you have IBS and notice blood in your stool, this should always be investigated by a GP rather than attributed to IBS alone. Managing IBS symptoms alongside bowel monitoring is important — our IBS and Cramps range may offer additional support.

What is the latest research on home bowel cancer screening tests?

Research continues to support the use of home faecal occult blood testing as an effective first-line screening tool for bowel cancer. The NHS has transitioned from guaiac-based tests to FIT testing in its national programme due to improved sensitivity and patient compliance. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals confirm that regular participation in bowel screening reduces bowel cancer mortality. Speak to your GP about the most up-to-date screening options available to you.

How Should You Use the Bowel Health Test?

Using the Newfoundland Bowel Health Test correctly is straightforward, but following each step carefully is essential for a reliable result. Before you begin, make sure you have read the full instruction leaflet included in the kit. Do not attempt to collect a sample during menstruation or if you have actively bleeding haemorrhoids, as this may affect accuracy.

What Is the Correct Dose of the Bowel Health Test?

This is a single-use diagnostic test kit, not a medicine, so "dosage" refers to the number of tests used per screening episode. Each kit contains one test. The table below outlines recommended usage based on indication and age group.

When Is the Best Time to Use the Bowel Health Test?

There is no specific time of day required for sample collection, but it is advisable to test when you are not menstruating and have not recently consumed foods that may interfere with the guaiac reaction — such as raw red meat or large quantities of broccoli. Some kit instructions recommend avoiding these foods for 48–72 hours before testing. Testing in the morning when you have a natural bowel movement is often the most convenient approach for most people.

How Long Can You Use the Bowel Health Test For?

Each kit is a single-use product and should not be reused. If you wish to repeat screening, purchase a new kit. The NHS recommends bowel cancer screening every two years for eligible adults, but your GP may advise a different frequency based on your individual risk profile. Do not use the kit beyond its printed expiry date, as the reagent may degrade and produce unreliable results.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Considerations When Using the Bowel Health Test?

As a diagnostic test kit rather than a pharmacological medicine, the Bowel Health Test does not cause drug-related side effects. However, there are important practical and psychological considerations to be aware of. The most commonly reported experience following a positive result is anxiety or distress while awaiting GP follow-up. This is entirely understandable — a positive result can feel alarming, even though many positive results are caused by non-cancerous conditions.

  • Anxiety or worry following a positive result.
  • Uncertainty while awaiting further investigation.
  • Temporary emotional distress, particularly if you have a family history of bowel cancer.

What Are the Less Common Issues Associated With the Bowel Health Test?

Less commonly, users may experience issues related to test accuracy rather than physical side effects. These are important to understand so you can interpret your result correctly and act appropriately.

  • False positive results — caused by dietary factors, haemorrhoids, or menstrual contamination, leading to unnecessary further investigation.
  • False negative results — the test may not detect blood if bleeding is intermittent, potentially providing false reassurance.
  • Difficulty collecting or applying the sample correctly, which may affect result reliability.

What Are the Serious Concerns Related to the Bowel Health Test?

The most serious concern is not a side effect of the test itself, but the consequence of misinterpreting results. A negative result does not rule out bowel cancer or other serious bowel conditions. If you have persistent symptoms — such as unexplained rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits lasting more than three weeks, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain — you must see your GP regardless of your test result. Relying solely on a home test when symptoms are present could delay a diagnosis.

What Should You Do If You Experience Distress After Using the Bowel Health Test?

If you feel anxious or distressed after receiving a positive result, contact your GP promptly rather than waiting. Your GP can provide context, reassurance, and arrange appropriate follow-up. Do not search for diagnoses online before speaking to a healthcare professional, as this can increase anxiety unnecessarily. If you are struggling emotionally, speaking to a pharmacist is also a good first step — they can help you understand what the result means and what happens next.

Can the Bowel Health Test Interact With Other Medicines or Substances?

The test itself does not interact with medicines in a pharmacological sense, but certain substances can affect the accuracy of the result. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen may cause minor gastrointestinal bleeding that produces a false positive. Anticoagulants such as warfarin may similarly increase the likelihood of GI bleeding. High-dose vitamin C supplements may inhibit the guaiac reaction in some test formats, potentially causing a false negative. Always inform your GP of any medicines you are taking when discussing your result.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery