Saliva tests
The hormone tests available are arranged through Laboratories specialising in testing the status of these delicate signalling molecules. Tests arranged through a hospital or GP usually measure the total amount of a hormone in blood. Unfortunately much of the hormone in blood has already been 'used up' and it is important to understand how much of that total amount circulating is actually still available to be used. These delicate hormone tests therefore largely depend on testing hormone levels in saliva rather than in blood and measuring just the part that is still 'available'. This is good news for you because it means for many of the tests there are no needles - just a simple collection of saliva in a small tube which you can do in the privacy of your own home.
Blood spot tests
Some tests do need to be taken with blood but again these can often be done with a simple blood 'spot'. This is where your finger is pricked with a special little device allowing you to drop spots of blood onto some special paper before sending it away to be tested.
Blood 'draw' tests
There is no getting away from the fact that occasionally there is nothing better for the particular thing that needs to be tested for than a normal blood 'draw' test carried out by a nurse. Unlike a test arranged through a GP or Consultant that often only measure one or two key things, a private test of this nature can be used to gather a very full picture of the profile of the blood and give valuable information to the therapist when drawing up the treatment protocol and prescription. These blood tests will usually be arranged through a private clinic and the appointment is generally included in the price of the test itself.
Urine tests
Sometimes a urine sample is the most appropriate for the information that is needed. These are easily collected in the privacy of your own home and posted off for analysis. Follow the instructions carefully as sometimes you have to limit how much you drink the evening before in order to ensure that the metabolites being tested in the urine aren't 'watered down' too much. Also sometimes these can only be done at the beginning of the week to ensure they are received by the Lab and processed before the end of the week.
Stool tests
A stool test to you and me is basically a test of your poo! Not a nice thought but vital if there are concerns about nasties crawling around in your bowel or a serious imbalance of the 'good bacteria'. Don't panic, just follow the instructions and think about how much better you are going to feel if the problem can be sorted out. These tests generally have to be done on a Monday or Tuesday and posted off quick to be sure they are completed before the Lab closes on a Friday afternoon.
Find out more more about the Tests Available or book an appointment with our Consultant Practitioner.