Common FAQs About DUTCH Test (Updated 2024)
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
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.
The DUTCH test measures a wide range of hormones and metabolites, including:
Once your samples reach the lab, the results are typically ready within 10 business days.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Yes, there are a few restrictions:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.