Hormone Testing...Why...How...When

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HORMONE TESTING:

The patterns of symptoms that indicate hormone imbalances: 
Recognizing symptoms indicating hormone imbalances is crucial. These signs may include acne, breast tenderness, decreased libido, hair loss, headaches/migraines during menstruation, heart palpitations, heavy periods, hot flashes/night sweats, heightened PMS, sleep disruptions, vaginal dryness/painful intercourse, as well as weight gain.​

1. The causes of hormone imbalances: Hormone imbalances can be caused by various factors including aging, environmental toxins, genetics, gut dysbiosis, heavy metals, mold, poor diet, stress, and yeast overgrowth. ​

2. The different types of hormone testing: There are several types of hormone testing available, including traditional blood testing, saliva testing, urine testing, and blood spot testing. Each type of testing has its own advantages and is used to measure different aspects of hormone levels and function. ​

3. The importance of working with a knowledgeable hormone provider: It is crucial to work with a hormone provider who has a good understanding of hormone imbalances and the appropriate tests and treatment plans for your specific situation. ​

   Different practitioners may have different training and expertise, so it is important to choose a provider who specializes in hormones and has the necessary credentials and training. ​

4. The types of hormones prescribed: There are different types of hormones that can be prescribed for hormone imbalances. It is important to be aware of the difference between synthetic hormones and bio-identical hormones. ​ Bio-identical hormones are chemically the same as the hormones produced by the body and may have fewer risks compared to synthetic hormones. ​ It is also important to ensure that compounded hormones are obtained from an accredited pharmacy. ​

TESTING TYPES:

1. Traditional Blood Testing: This type of testing is good for both males and women who are still menstruating. ​ It can be used to measure thyroid hormones, detect metabolic issues with sugar metabolism, and detect nutrient deficiencies. ​

2. Saliva Testing: Saliva testing is good for measuring cortisol, which is the stress hormone. ​ It can also measure topical hormone creams. ​ However, it cannot measure hormones given via troche (melts in your mouth). ​

3. Urine Testing: Urine testing measures urinary metabolites, which are the breakdown products of hormones. ​ It is good for measuring cortisol, assessing estrogen detoxification, and detecting nutrient deficiencies. ​ It can also measure topical hormones. ​​

4. Blood Spot Testing: Blood spot testing, from a finger prick for example, measures whole blood and can monitor topical hormones, troche, or oral hormones. ​ It can measure hormones, thyroid, and metabolic markers such as glucose, insulin, and cholesterol.​

Knowing Testing Types is Crucial Because:

• Each type of testing has its own advantages and limitations. For example, saliva testing is good for measuring cortisol levels, while urine testing is useful for assessing estrogen detoxification. ​

• Different types of testing may be more appropriate for different situations or conditions. ​ For example, blood testing is commonly used for measuring thyroid hormones, while urine testing is useful for measuring how hormones are metabolized.

• Using multiple types of testing can provide a more complete picture of hormone imbalances and help guide treatment plans. ​

• Monitoring hormone levels regularly through testing is important to track progress and make adjustments to treatment plans as needed. ​
  
  The recommended tests for hormone imbalance are: ​

  1. Advanced Lipid panel with particle sizes

  2. Full Iron Panel ​

  3. Thyroid Panel: TSH/ Free T3, Free T4, and Reverse T3 ​

  4. Cortisol

  5. DHEAS

  6. Fasting Glucose/Insulin/ Hemoglobin A1C

  7. CBC and Complete Metabolic Panel

  8. Omega 6/3 Ratios ​​

  9. Extended Hormone Panel: DUTCH or Genova ​​
     
     The Advanced Lipid Profile helps assess cholesterol levels, while the Full Iron Panel measures iron levels in the body. ​
     
     The Thyroid Panel evaluates thyroid hormone levels, including TSH, FT3, FT4 and RT3. Cortisol testing is crucial for assessing stress hormone levels, and DHEAs measures adrenal hormone levels.
     
     Fasting Glucose/Insulin testing helps evaluate blood sugar regulation, and CRP measures inflammation levels. Omega 6/3 Ratios assess the balance of essential fatty acids in the body.
     
     Finally, the Extended Hormone Panel, such as DUTCH or Genova, provides a comprehensive assessment of hormone levels and their metabolites. ​

Essential To Know If Choosing or Seeing a Provider:

• Training: Understanding the level of training a provider has received in hormone optimization is crucial. Seek out providers with advanced training in hormones, like completing a fellowship and obtaining board certification from reputable organizations such as A4M or MMI, or training in functional medicine from IFM. These additional credentials signify a more profound comprehension of hormone imbalances and their treatment. ​

• Credentials: Consider the credentials of the provider. While there are many healthcare professionals who can be helpful in addressing hormone imbalances, if you anticipate needing a prescription, it may be beneficial to start with a provider who is able to prescribe medication. ​ This includes MDs, DOs, Naturopathic Doctors (in certain states), Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants. ​

• Hormone Testing: Make sure the provider knows about various hormone testing methods: traditional blood, saliva, urine, and blood spot testing. If a provider insists on only one type of testing or skips baseline testing and monitoring after hormone prescription, that's a red flag.

• Hormone Prescribing: Ask about the types of hormones prescribed. Traditional synthetic hormones like Premarin and Provera are common but may have more risks than bio-identical hormones. Bio-identical hormones are chemically the same as those produced by the body and could be a safer choice. FDA-approved bio-identical hormones like estradiol patches and micronized progesterone are options. If testosterone is required, it might need to be specially compounded. Ensure the provider is knowledgeable in compounded hormones and uses an accredited compounding pharmacy.

Hormone Guru Answers Your Questions!
Been told that your labs are normal…still having symptoms?

The Hormone Guru:

Transform Your Life with Threads of Wisdom and Bursts of Laughter!

Embrace your role as the maestro of your hormones... And, rather than just riding the waves, command them with elegance and joy.

It's time to celebrate the orchestration of your internal rhythms, note by joyful note. But how?

• Stay Curious: Dive deeper into "The Hormone Beat" and uncover secrets to master your hormonal harmony.

• Cherish Your Journey: Your path is unique. Embrace it with every burst of laughter and moment of discovery.

• Live Balanced: Discover the bliss of well-tuned hormones. Let your days resonate with the harmony you deserve.

Until we meet again on this vibrant voyage, just remember: Your path to hormonal balance isn't just a journey, it's a celebration. Come join us on this adventure. Let's make every moment count.

Stay inquisitive, cherish your unique journey, and may your days be filled with the balance and bliss of well-tuned hormones.

Until our paths cross again... Keep tuning into The Hormone Beat.