Comprehensive hormone testing may be completed in the blood or urine. However, we are learning that urine testing can provide valuable information for certain hormone metabolization pathways. The urine test is used to profile reproductive hormones – estrogen, progesterone, testosterone & their metabolites (breakdown products). It also shows how cortisol & its metabolite cortisone, changes throughout the day (4 separate samples to graph the changes). To help map out circadian rhythm patterns (sleep & wake cycle), the test can also show how much melatonin is produced. Lastly, the urine hormone test also tests for organic acid markers of nutrients, antioxidants, neurotransmitters (dopamine & epinephrine/norepinephrine) and oxidative stress/inflammation markers.

 

A comprehensive hormone test may be helpful under certain circumstances and can provide a wealth of knowledge on hormone health. However, there are hormones & markers that should and can only be tested in the blood. For example, Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), Thyroid Hormones (T3 & T4), Insulin, Prolactin and some others, if indicated.

 

Not all tests are required all of the time. A comprehensive hormone test is an optional test that can help you understand your health better and is only recommended by your naturopathic doctor if indicated.

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Symptoms that may improve with the information collected from comprehensive hormone assessments may include:

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

• Irregular menstrual periods

• Painful menstrual periods

• Heavy menstrual periods

• Lack of menstrual period

• Elongated menstrual cycle

• Hot Flashes

• Brain Fog

• Low Libido

• Fatigue

• Not waking rested in morning 

• Second wind of energy in evening

• Hair thinning

• Difficulties losing weight

• etc.

 

Meeting with Dr. Mawji ND may help you learn about what types of testing may be the most beneficial and indicated for you, if required.