What to expect

Coming for an MRI scan at win

 FAQ

How can i get directions to WIN?

WIN has three sites: FMRIB, OHBA, and Tinsley. Click on the name of the site you want to get to, for detailed directions. FMRIB is at the JR Hospital, OHBA is at the Warneford Hospital, and Tinsley is in Oxford city centre. 

I PREFER TO COVER MY BODY FOR RELIGIOUS, CULTURAL, OR PERSONAL REASONS. CAN I STILL GET SCANNED?

Yes. Everyone getting scanned on our MRI machines is asked to change into 'scrubs' - a simple loose-fitting shirt and full-length trousers. From September 2023, long-sleeve scrubs shirts (instead of short sleeve which is normally provided) and MRI-safe headscarves are available on request. 

Can I request women-only or men-only scanning staff for my scan?

The radiographers and scanner operators are the ones who will ask you medical questions (in private) on a safety screening form, immediately before your scan. They are also the ones who will be in the scanner room with you as you get into and out of the scanner and will attach any necessary monitoring equipment (such as a device to measure your pulse or breathing rate). If you would like only women or only men as your radiographers/scanner operators, please contact the researcher whose study you are participating in to request this. These requests need to be made at least a week in advance, as many of our staff work at our other locations. Please note that the researcher themself is also present at the scan.

How should i wear my hair for a scan?

The way you wear your hair when you go into the scanner is important for your comfort and safety. We would usually ask you to wear your hair down so it can be laid flat under your head. Please let the researcher know if you have plaits, braids, cornrows, dreadlocks, additional permanent hair weaves or hair extensions in advance of your scan. 

Is a prayer space available during my visit to WIN as a study participant?

Yes, a quiet private space for prayer can be booked for you. Please request this in advance by contacting the researcher whose study you are participating in. 

Can I have an MRI scan during my period?

It is perfectly safe for you to have an MRI scan with us while you are on your period and there is no requirement to discuss this with your radiographer.

Sanitary pads, tampons, silicone period cups and discs are all fine to wear during your scan. If you are planning to wear absorbent period underwear, please check the label and ensure these don’t contain any metallic antimicrobial fibres.

If you are wearing any pain-management devices such as magnets, tens machines, or sticky patches that provide heat or pain relieving medications, please remove these prior to your scan.

Is a breastfeeding area available during my visit to WIN as a study participant?

Yes, a quiet private space for breastfeeding can be booked for you. Please request this in advance by contacting the researcher whose study you are participating in. 

Is an MRI scan painful?

No! Please see the 'coming for a scan' videos above to hear more about the scanning experience. 

will i be injected with dye?

No, WIN MRI scans do not involve dye injections.

What questions will I be asked before I enter the MRI scanner?

You will be asked various questions about your health, medical history, and clothing, to ensure it is safe for you to enter the scanner. We are working on a detailed explanation of why each of these questions is asked (coming to this page in summer 2023); in the meantime, please ask the researcher whose study you are participating in for further explanations if needed.  

Have a question you don't see answered here? Please contact WIN's Public Engagement Officer, Hanna Smyth.