Functional Hormone Testing
✨ Instead of just managing your symptoms, we use the DUTCH to take an in-depth look at your hormones. ✨
What is the DUTCH Hormone Test?
The Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones (DUTCH) is a special kind of functional lab test that helps us understand how your hormones are working in your body. Hormones are like little messengers that tell your body what to do, like when to grow, when to sleep, or even when to feel happy. The DUTCH delivers the most complete assessment of sex and adrenal hormones, along with their metabolites, in one easy-to-administer test.
How Does It Work?
Instead of just one blood sample, this test uses your urine and saliva samples taken at different times of the day and night. These samples show how your hormones change throughout the day and night, which is important because hormones follow a schedule, just like your daily routine.
Why is it Useful?
This test helps doctors understand if your hormones are in harmony or if there’s an issue. For example, if you’re feeling tired all the time, it might show your cortisol levels are too high, indicating too much stress. Or, if you’re having trouble sleeping, it can show if your melatonin levels are off. If you’re having painful or heavy periods, it can show if you have estrogen dominance. And so much more!
How the testing package works
The DUTCH is done right from the comfort of your home & is as easy as 1-2-3.
- Fill out the questionnaire
After purchasing the package, I’ll send you a questionnaire to learn a little more about your health history, current lifestyle, and wellness goals. - Complete & return the DUTCH test kit
The test kit and instructions will be shipped directly to your home. After you complete the test, you’ll also be able to schedule a pick-up for your specimen in the prepaid return box. (i.e. you never have to leave the house!) - Get your results & protocol
After your results are in, I’ll record an in-depth screen recording explaining your results and custom healing protocol. (Clients love this because you can pause, go back, watch at your own pace, & review as many times as needed!)
ALL-INCLUSIVE INVESTMENT: $599
Who should get a DUTCH?
The DUTCH can be beneficial for various individuals, especially those who are experiencing specific symptoms or conditions related to hormonal imbalances.
Here are some scenarios where someone might be a good candidate for the DUTCH:
Hormonal symptoms (cramps, heavy bleeding, painful periods, PMS, etc)
Individuals experiencing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, such as fatigue, mood swings, irregular periods, hot flashes, or sleep disturbances, may benefit from this test. It can help identify the underlying hormonal issues contributing to these symptoms.
Fertility concerns or preconception
Couples struggling with infertility or women with irregular menstrual cycles may use the DUTCH to assess their reproductive hormone levels, including estrogen and progesterone. Alternatively, women who are looking to conceive for the first time may benefit from a comprehensive look at their hormones in the preconception phase to ensure the healthiest possible pregnancy.
Stress management
People dealing with chronic stress or adrenal fatigue can use the test to assess cortisol levels throughout the day and night. It helps in understanding how stress is affecting their hormonal balance.
Menopausal and perimenopausal women
Women in perimenopause or menopause often experience changes in hormone levels. The DUTCH can provide insights into these changes and help guide hormone replacement therapy, if necessary.
Thyroid issues
While the DUTCH primarily focuses on sex hormones and stress hormones, it can indirectly provide information about thyroid function. It can be helpful for individuals with suspected thyroid imbalances.
Mood disorders
Individuals with mood disorders like anxiety or depression may benefit from this test, as it can reveal hormonal contributors to these conditions.
Nutritional and lifestyle optimization
Some individuals use the DUTCH as part of a broader approach to optimize their health, including nutrition, sleep, and exercise. It can provide insights into areas that need attention for overall well-being.
What does the DUTCH show?
Estrogen & estrogen metabolism
Estrogen is a key female sex hormone. The test measures different forms of estrogen to ensure they are in balance, which is important for reproductive health and overall well-being.
DUTCH also looks at your ability to metabolize (i.e. get rid of) estrogen appropriately. Proper estrogen metabolism is crucial for hormonal balance and reducing the risk of certain health issues.
Progesterone
Progesterone is another female sex hormone, and it’s essential for menstrual cycle regulation and fertility. Progesterone is also an important hormone for getting and staying pregnant so it especially important in the preconception phase.
Androgens (testosterone / DHT)
Testosterone is typically thought of as the primary male sex hormone, but it’s also a very important hormone in females. DHT is an extra potent form of testosterone. Imbalances in these hormones, which can affect mood, energy, and skin health.
Cortisol & cortisol metabolism
This marker measures your stress hormone levels at different times throughout the day and night. It helps assess how well your body manages stress and if it’s too high or low at specific times. It also examines the breakdown products of cortisol, offering insights into how your body processes stress hormones.
Melatonin
Melatonin is your sleep hormone. This marker checks how well your body produces melatonin, which affects your sleep-wake cycle and sleep quality.
Neurotransmitters, inflammation, vitamins, & more!
DUTCH also examines 8-OHdG, which is a sign of oxidative damage, indicators for B vitamin status, and several neurotransmitter metabolites, including dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.
FAQs
What happens after I finish the protocol?
It’s up to you! Some women choose re-testing after the protocol to see how their test results have changed and ensure all of the abnormal results have been adequately addressed. Others, who have complete resolution of symptoms or overall feel well may still find it beneficial to complete an annual DUTCH to stay on top of their hormone health.
Does this package include ongoing support with you?
No- this package is not meant to replace 1:1 support and only includes a recording of your results. If specific questions or concerns arise during the protocol, you may reach out to me at jenna@herrootedwellness.com. Please note excessive correspondences may result in additional charges or a discussion on upgrading package options.
What if I realize I need more support once I start the protocol?
Reach out to me directly at jenna@herrootedwellness.com to discuss upgrade options & we can make something work! You can also view my other offerings here.
How can I be sure this is the right test for me?
That can be tough! Deciding which test is best for which symptoms definitely requires nuance & expertise, that’s why I always recommend scheduling a free 15-minute chat with me to discuss the testing options before placing your order.
Is a DUTCH helpful if my period has been missing for a long time?
This is actually not where I would start in this situation- if your period has been missing, I typically recommend blood tests as a more comprehensive & cost-effective starting place. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to discuss further.
Is a DUTCH helpful if I am on hormonal birth control or just got off of hormonal birth control?
Not really. Hormonal birth control suppresses your natural hormones and prevents ovulation which prevents the production of progesterone. If you have just gotten off of hormonal birth control, I recommend waiting 3-6 months before taking a DUTCH.
What is your refund policy?
Once the test kit is completed and mailed back to the lab, I am not able to offer any refunds as I am unable to recoup the lab fees for testing. If you have ordered the lab kit but no longer wish to complete it and have not returned it to the lab, send an email to jenna@herrootedwellness.com so I can check refund eligibility and follow-up with you.
What are the payment options/do you accept insurance?
You can pay for your order using all major credit/debit cards, or HSA/FSA cards. At this time, Insurance reimbursement is not available for these tests.
more questions?