How do I prepare for a DEXA bone density scan?

There’s very little preparation needed for a DEXA scan. Just wear comfortable clothing and avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before your appointment.

A DEXA scan is quick, painless, and requires almost no preparation. To ensure accurate results:

• Avoid taking calcium or vitamin D supplements for 24 hours beforehand.
• Wear loose, metal-free clothing (no zips, belts, or underwires).
• Inform your clinic if you are pregnant or have recently had another imaging test using contrast dye (within the last week).

You can eat and drink normally before your scan. The DEXA scan itself takes 10–15 minutes, and you can return to your normal activities immediately afterwards.