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Functional Testing: Female Health & Hormones

DUTCH Complete Profile

The Dutch Complete test is a comprehensive assessment of sex and adrenal hormones and their metabolites. It also includes the daily, free cortisol pattern, metabolised cortisol,  DHEA, melatonin, and oxidative stress, organic acid markers for B12, B6, Folate and glutathione (our primary liver antioxidant)

 

DUTCH stands for, Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones. Urine samples are taken using filter paper making the test easy to do at home as there is no need for a blood draw or 24-hour total urine collection. You need to collect just four or five dried urine samples over a 24-hour period.

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© Sandra James 2020

Female Microbiome

The female urinary microbiomes (gut-bladder-vagina) are a key factor for women’s health. Crucial for a healthy vaginal environment is a specific, but delicate microbial balance, characterised by a low species diversity, a low vaginal pH and dominance of Lactobacillus species.

There is a growing body of resarch into the female microbiomes, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and probiotics specific for this microbial community.

 

Vaginal Dysbiosis

Disruption of microbiota composition and functions, termed dysbiosis, has been linked to a multitude of disorders, including: bacterial vaginosis (BV), premature delivery in pregnant women, infertility, miscarriages and increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as UTIs. E. coli is responsible for 80% of recurrent UTIs  and is usually accompanied by decreased Lactobacilli

It is also worth considering the following tests :

DUTCH Cycle Mapping Plus

Maps oestrogen and progesterone through the monthly menstrual cycle but also adds the comprehensiveness of all the hormone metabolites along with the cortisol awakening response (CAR).

Fluctuating levels of estradiol and progesterone play a major role in a woman’s overall health. This panel is designed for cycling women who struggle with ongoing symptoms such as monthly migraines, fertility issues, or PCOS. The addition of the cortisol awakening response (CAR), provides a fuller assessment of hormone fluctuations and baseline stress response.

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Female EcologiX Test

This new test assesses the vaginal microbiome (bacteria and yeast) – a key ecosystem for female health and reproductive optimisation.

Oral EcologiX Test

Assesses the oral microbiome – a key ecosystem in the gut-brain connection, and for cardiovascular and female reproductive health. The oral cavity is a

complex ecosystem, comprising several habitats including the teeth, gums,

tongue and tonsils, all colonised by bacteria.  

Oral Microbiome

The majority of oral microbiota species exist within a structure termed the oral biofilm (dental plaque). In healthy individuals, the oral biofilm is dominated by commensal bacteria that maintain a healthy mouth.

The disruption of this, termed dysbiosis, has been linked to a multitude of conditions and there is now also research data is highly suggestive of the oral microbiome being a key player in pregnancy outcomes. Most epidemiological studies conclude that periodontitis is a risk factor for pre-term birth, low birth weight or preeclampsia.

Why measure all these hormones?

There are lots of reasons!  Many suffer from hormonal imbalances. If you suspect you have “adrenal fatigue,” sleep or stress issues, testing your adrenal hormones and their rhythms gives specific information about what is happening. Read more about the adrenal part of this test.

With fertility issues, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, PMS, irregular periods, painful periods, anxiety and moodiness, and endometriosis, this test is highly beneficial. It gives a complete picture of how adrenal and reproductive hormone imbalances contribute to these problems.

 

Oestrogen Metabolism Assessment evaluates how oestrogen is being processed in the body. A balance of anti and pro carcinogenic breakdown products of oestrogen are assessed and can shed light into many oestrogen-dependent conditions and provides an important tool for monitoring dietary, lifestyle and hormone therapies.

 

Testosterone Metabolism Assessment: one piece of a woman’s hormones that is often forgotten about is the need for testosterone. Testosterone in women is essential for libido, memory, motivation and exercise stamina.

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