Hormones play a crucial role in a woman’s overall health, affecting everything from energy levels and mood to metabolism, menstrual cycles, and fertility. When hormones are out of balance, women can experience a range of frustrating symptoms, including fatigue, irregular periods, weight fluctuations, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Functional hormone testing offers a deeper understanding of these imbalances, allowing for targeted and personalized treatment.

What is Functional Hormone Testing?

Functional hormone testing goes beyond standard blood tests by assessing hormone patterns throughout the day and evaluating how the body metabolizes hormones. This type of testing provides a more comprehensive view of hormone function, giving us critical insights into the root cause of symptoms rather than just identifying abnormal levels.

The DUTCH Test: A Comprehensive Look at Hormones

One of the most effective functional hormone tests is the DUTCH Test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones). This test measures hormone levels and their metabolites over a 24-hour period, giving a full picture of how hormones are produced, used, and broken down in the body.

The DUTCH Test evaluates:

• Cortisol & Stress Response – Understanding the body’s stress hormones and their daily rhythm

• Estrogen & Estrogen Metabolism – Identifying estrogen dominance, metabolism efficiency, and detoxification pathways

• Progesterone Levels – Assessing luteal phase health and hormonal balance

• Testosterone & Androgens – Checking for androgen imbalances that can contribute to acne, PCOS, or hair loss

• Melatonin – Evaluating sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythm health

How Do We Treat Hormone Imbalances?

Once we receive DUTCH Test results, we create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of hormonal imbalances.

Treatment options may include:

1. Nutrition & Lifestyle Modifications

• Balancing blood sugar through whole-food nutrition

• Supporting liver detoxification for optimal hormone metabolism

• Reducing inflammation with an anti-inflammatory diet

• Optimizing gut health, as the gut plays a key role in hormone balance

2. Stress Management & Adrenal Support

• Implementing stress-reducing practices like breathwork, meditation, or gentle movement

• Supporting the adrenal glands with adaptogenic herbs and targeted nutrients

• Improving sleep hygiene to restore cortisol balance

3. Supplementation & Herbal Medicine

• Using targeted supplements such as magnesium, B vitamins, and omega-3s

• Incorporating herbal remedies like chaste tree (Vitex), ashwagandha, or DIM to support hormone balance

4. Detoxification & Hormone Metabolism Support

• Enhancing liver detox pathways with cruciferous vegetables and key nutrients

• Supporting proper estrogen clearance to prevent estrogen dominance

• Encouraging lymphatic drainage through hydration, movement, and dry brushing

5. Bioidentical or Natural Hormone Support (if needed)

In some cases, bioidentical hormones or glandular support may be recommended to help restore balance, always under professional guidance.

Is Functional Hormone Testing Right for You?

If you struggle with symptoms like PMS, irregular cycles, chronic fatigue, sleep issues, weight changes, or perimenopausal symptoms, functional hormone testing can provide the answers you need. By addressing the root cause of hormone imbalances, we help women feel their best, regain energy, and achieve lasting wellness.

Interested in learning more? Schedule a consultation today to see if hormone testing is right for you!