What is a DUTCH test and when is it useful?
DUTCH test stands for Dried Urine Complete Hormone Test. This is an incredibly useful test which may help patients to find out the root causes of their hormone imbalances. The test measures 35 different hormones and their metabolites including oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisone, cortisol, DHEA-S, and melatonin. It also measures six organic acids in the urine to give information on levels of vitamin B12 and vitamin B6, gluthathione (a powerful antioxidant), dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine (aka adrenaline and noradrenaline) and serotonin levels in the body.
The test is often used by patients with conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), menopause and peri-menopause, pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), fibroids, low libido, fatigue, low mood or mood swings, sleep disorders or prostate problems. It can also be useful to measure hormone levels in women taking HRT who are trying to find the right dosage regime for them.
The test is easy to complete. It involves collecting urine samples on special filter papers which are then sent back to the laboratory for analysis. Typically results come back in a little over fourteen working days. I usually use Regenerus Labs for this test. If you are interest in finding out how private testing may help you email me at ellie@hollyhealthcare.co.uk or telephone 07949463288 to arrange a free ten minute telephone consultation.