The DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) test, offered by Precision Analytical, is an advanced method for assessing hormone imbalances and adrenal function in both men and women.
Unlike traditional blood tests, the DUTCH test provides a comprehensive view of your hormonal health by analyzing urine and saliva samples collected throughout the day.
This test not only identifies imbalances in hormones but also helps to understand the underlying reasons for these imbalances by assessing the metabolism of the hormones.
This helps to guide you towards a more targeted and effective treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the DUTCH Test
What Is the DUTCH Test?
The DUTCH test is the most advanced method for evaluating sex and adrenal hormones, as well as their metabolites.
It involves collecting dried urine and saliva samples at home at five specific times during the day, offering a detailed picture of your hormone levels and metabolism.
When Should I Take the DUTCH Test?
- Men and Post-Menopausal Women: You can take the DUTCH test at any time.
- Women with Regular Cycles: The best time to take the test is during the luteal phase of your cycle, approximately days 19-22, or one week after ovulation.
- Women with Irregular Cycles: Consult with your practitioner to determine the optimal timing for your test. You may also want to consider the addition of the DUTCH cycle mapping test.
What Does the DUTCH Test Measure?
The DUTCH test measures a wide range of hormones and metabolites, including:
How Long Do DUTCH Test Results Take?
Once your samples reach the lab, the results are typically ready within 10 business days.
How Much Does the DUTCH Test Cost?
- DUTCH Complete Test: $395 (or $495 with a one-hour consultation)
- DUTCH Plus Test: $495 (or $595 with a one-hour consultation)
What is the difference between the DUTCH plus and the DUTCH complete test?
Both tests measure the sex hormones and the Organic acid markers exactly the same. The difference between the two tests is how they measure adrenal function.
The DUTCH Complete this test measures adrenal function at 4-5 times through the day and night to give you a guide to the changes in free cortisol levels as well as total cortisol production over a 24 hour period.
The DUTCH Plus measures adrenal function using saliva to assess the free cortisol levels and measures the cortisol awakening response in greater detail.
This test measures free cortisol levels at 5-6 times throughout the day and night, plus it measures urine cortisol levels to get the total cortisol production.
This video walks you through the differences DUTCH Plus Hormone Test Compared To The DUTCH Complete Test
What Is the Difference Between an OAT Test and the DUTCH Test?
- DUTCH Test: Focuses on sex and adrenal hormones and includes 8 organic acid markers.
- OAT (Organic Acids Test): Assesses 70 different organic acid markers but does not measure hormones. It's beneficial to combine both tests for a comprehensive health assessment.
Who Should Use the DUTCH Test?
The DUTCH test is suitable for both men and women over 12 years old. While the main focus is to assess hormone levels there are many reasons why people would do the DUTCH test.
It is particularly useful for athletes, individuals with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, autoimmune conditions, or anyone seeking to optimize their hormonal health.
What Is a DUTCH Urine Test?
The DUTCH test collects urine samples using special collection papers that dry for 24 hours before shipping to the lab. This method has been scientifically validated for its accuracy in hormone measurement.
Which Is Better: Saliva Test or DUTCH Test?
The DUTCH test provides a more comprehensive analysis than saliva tests, measuring free cortisol at five points during the day and night, free cortisone levels, and total cortisol production over 24 hours.
A saliva cortisol test does not assess total cortisol production which is very important when assessing the best way to treat.
How to Interpret DUTCH Test Results?
Interpreting DUTCH test results involves understanding the levels and patterns of various hormones and their metabolites.
A consultation with a qualified practitioner is recommended for accurate interpretation and developing an effective treatment plan.
What Is Measured in Urine, and Is It as Good as Blood or Saliva Testing?
Urine testing with the DUTCH method is a validated, accurate way to assess hormones. While blood tests have been the traditional standard, the DUTCH test provides a more detailed and convenient at-home option, measuring both free and total hormone levels.
Are there benefits to doing a DUTCH hormone test AND a blood test for hormones?
Yes! While the DUTCH test is excellent for assessing hormones and how they are getting metabolized one of the advantages of a blood test is being able to assess LH and FSH levels - these are the messages from the brain telling the ovaries (in women) and the testes (in men) to make hormones.
For some people testing testosterone in a blood test is superior to the DUTCH test because of the way they metabolize testosterone.
How Does the DUTCH Urine Test Compare to 24-Hour Urine Testing?
The DUTCH test offers a more comprehensive analysis than the traditional 24-hour urine test, measuring free cortisol levels and their rhythm throughout the day, in addition to total cortisol production. This provides a more complete picture of adrenal health.
A 24 hour urine test can only measure total cortisol production over the 24 hour period.
What Is the DUTCH Cycle Mapping?
Cycle mapping is a specialized DUTCH test for women, measuring estrogen and progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle. This test is ideal for those experiencing hormonal issues, infertility, PCOS, or PMS.
How Do I Collect Samples for the DUTCH Test?
To collect samples for the DUTCH test, follow these steps:
- Preparation: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and excessive fluid intake on the day of collection.
- Collection Times: Collect urine samples on the provided filter paper at five specific times throughout the day (morning, afternoon, evening, bedtime, and upon waking).
- Drying: Allow the samples to dry for at least 24 hours before shipping them to the lab.
- Shipping: Use the provided prepaid envelope to send your dried samples to the lab.
- All test kits come with these instructions and the DUTCH test website also has video tutorials
Are There Any Restrictions Before Taking the DUTCH Test?
Yes, there are a few restrictions:
- Avoid taking hormone supplements (unless advised by your practitioner) and medications that may affect your hormone levels. This includes corticosteroids which will affect adrenal function.
- Refrain from strenuous exercise and limit fluid intake on the day of the test.
- Follow any specific instructions provided by your practitioner or the test kit.
Can I Take the DUTCH Test While on Hormone Therapy?
Yes, but timing and specific instructions may vary. It's important to consult with your practitioner to determine the best approach, which may include temporarily stopping certain hormones or timing the test around your hormone therapy schedule.
How Often Should I Repeat the DUTCH Test?
The frequency of testing depends on your individual health goals and treatment plan. Generally, it is recommended to retest every 6-12 months to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Can the DUTCH Test Help with Weight Management?
Yes, the DUTCH test can provide insights into hormone imbalances that may affect weight management, such as cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, 5a-DHT levels. Addressing these imbalances can support weight loss efforts and overall metabolic health.
Is the DUTCH Test Covered by Insurance?
Coverage for the DUTCH test varies by insurance provider and plan. It is best to check with your insurance company to see if they offer reimbursement for this type of testing. At Planet Naturopath we don’t work with insurance but the cash price for our tests is cheaper.
Can I Do the DUTCH Test if I Am Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
The DUTCH test is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to the natural fluctuations in hormone levels during these periods. Consult with your practitioner for alternative testing options if needed.
What Should I Do if My DUTCH Test Results Are Abnormal?
If your results indicate hormone imbalances, it is important to schedule a consultation and get professional guidance on the best steps to improve your levels.
This may include lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, supplements, and other interventions to restore hormonal balance and improve overall health.