Take Control of Your Hormonal Health
Hormones play a vital role in regulating your energy, mood, metabolism, and overall well-being. When these hormones become imbalanced, it can lead to fatigue, weight changes, stress, and other health concerns. Hormone saliva testing offers a simple, non-invasive way to uncover these imbalances, providing clear insights into your body’s hormonal health and empowering you to take control of your well-being.
What is the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test?
The DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test (Precision Analytical DUTCH Plus®) is a comprehensive, non-invasive test used to assess your hormonal health. It measures a wide range of hormones and their metabolites, offering deep insights into sex hormones, adrenal hormones, and their metabolic pathways. This test helps to identify imbalances and their root causes, providing a clearer understanding of how your hormones are functioning and influencing your overall health. By using the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test, we are able to offer detailed, accurate results that guide the creation of a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
What We Learn from Saliva Testing
Salivary testing is a practice used by Dr. Khan and his team of functional medicine experts at Internal Healing and Wellness MD to examine a variety of diseases and hormonal abnormalities. Our home office could contact patients from The Woodlands and Greater Houston area, to provide them with home saliva-testing kits. These kits are simple enough to use that they can be easily handled at home by anyone.
Our saliva testing procedure is completely non-invasive because it only requires the patients to simply collect saliva samples in plastic tubes and mail them to our laboratory. Patients will not need to book a consultation in order for our holistic and functional medicine doctors to conduct a hormone saliva testing. Our experts will then be easily able to analyze hormone levels, evaluate bodily surpluses and deficiencies, and track hormonal balance. With the available cutting-edge technology at our facility along with a functional medicine approach, we make sure that the data obtained from the saliva tests is as accurate as possible.
What is the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test?
The DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test is a modern, non-invasive tool for assessing hormone levels. Unlike traditional blood or urine tests, DUTCH Plus® measures bioavailable hormones—the active hormones your body can use. This makes it a reliable and detailed option for evaluating hormonal health, identifying imbalances, and guiding effective treatment plans. The DUTCH Plus® test provides a detailed snapshot of hormone metabolism, which is crucial for regulating metabolism, stress response, mood, sleep, and reproductive health. Our saliva tests check key hormones, including:
- Cortisol and Cortisone – Stress response, adrenal health, and metabolism.
- Estrogen – Supports reproductive health, mood, and bone strength.
- Progesterone – A hormone balancing estrogen and supporting pregnancy.
- Testosterone – Important for energy, muscle mass, and libido.
- DHEA – A precursor to testosterone and estrogen, supporting metabolism and aging.
- Melatonin – Regulates sleep and circadian rhythm.
- Organic Acid Markers – Indicators of oxidative stress, gut health, and nutritional status
The function of the adrenal glands is one of the most important things we can learn from hormonal saliva tests. These ducts produce a variety of hormones, most notably cortisol and aldosterone, both of which are steroid hormones. Any disorder in the functioning of these glands can cause a number of problems, including:
- Obesity
- Thin Limbs
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Brittle bones
- Muscular weakness
- Slow growth in children
- Increased blood pressure
- Increase in blood sugar levels
- Skin problems such as acne and abdominal streaks
Why Choose the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test?
The DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test offers unique advantages by measuring the most active forms of hormones in your body—the ones that are actively used by your system. Unlike blood tests, which measure both active and inactive hormones, DUTCH Plus® gives a clearer and more accurate picture of how your hormones are functioning at a cellular level.
Key benefits of the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test include:
1. Comprehensive Insights
Measures a wide range of hormones and their metabolites, including sex hormones, adrenal hormones, and markers for oxidative stress and circadian rhythms.
2. Accuracy
Provides a more detailed understanding of hormone activity, capturing both levels and how they are metabolized in your body.
3. Non-Invasive
No need for needles or clinic visits; all samples can be collected from the comfort of your home.
4. Real-Time Data
Tracks fluctuations in hormone levels throughout the day, such as cortisol peaks and drops, giving you insights into your body’s hormonal patterns.
Health and Hormones in Greater Houston
Internal healing and wellness MD’s trained staff, which includes functional medicine doctors and hormonal saliva testing experts, has treated many cases of hormonal imbalances in The Woodlands, and the Greater Houston area. With the use of at-home salivary test kits, the team of specialists at our facility can detect a wide range of hormone-related disorders and accordingly develop individualized treatment plans for every patient.
What the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test Measures
Cortisol and Cortisone: Managing Stress and Energy
Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, regulates your body’s stress response, energy levels, and inflammation. Cortisone, its inactive metabolite, provides additional insights into adrenal function and how effectively cortisol is being converted.
Measuring both cortisol and cortisone throughout the day highlights imbalances in adrenal activity, stress response, and metabolism. Signs of cortisol or cortisone imbalance include:
- Fatigue and low energy
- Poor stress resilience
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Increased blood sugar levels
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
Melatonin: Regulating Sleep and Circadian Rhythm
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates your sleep-wake cycle and circadian rhythm. Imbalances can significantly affect your energy and rest. Signs of low melatonin levels include:
- Insomnia or difficulty staying asleep
- Chronic fatigue or low energy
- Disrupted circadian rhythm (e.g., shift work, jet lag)
Saliva testing for melatonin helps identify disruptions in your sleep cycle, providing actionable insights to improve rest and support overall hormonal balance.
Estrogen: Balancing Reproductive and Emotional Health
Estrogen plays a critical role in reproductive health, bone strength, and mood stability. Saliva testing measures bioavailable estrogen to identify imbalances that can lead to:
- Irregular menstrual cycles or heavy periods
- PMS symptoms like bloating, headaches, or irritability
- Weight gain around the hips and thighs
- Anxiety, depression, and mood swings
- Perimenopause and menopause symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats)
Progesterone: Supporting Hormonal Harmony
Progesterone is essential for balancing estrogen, promoting regular menstrual cycles, and supporting pregnancy. Signs of progesterone imbalance include:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Anxiety and mood swings
- Infertility or difficulty sustaining pregnancy
- PMS symptoms (breast tenderness, bloating, irritability)
Testosterone: Strength, Vitality, and Libido
Testosterone, often associated with men’s health, is equally important for women. It supports energy, muscle mass, and libido. Signs of low testosterone include:
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Low libido or sexual dysfunction
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- Mood changes, such as irritability or depression
DHEA: The Hormone Precursor
DHEA serves as a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen and supports energy, metabolism, and the body’s response to aging. Signs of low DHEA include:
- Fatigue or low stamina
- Reduced muscle strength
- Mood changes, anxiety, or depression
- Signs of aging, like wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity
- A weakened immune system
Organic Acid Testing: A Holistic View of Health
Organic Acid Testing (OATs) evaluates key metabolic markers that can influence hormone balance and overall health. OATs provide insights into:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Assessing vitamin and mineral levels that support hormone production.
- Oxidative Stress: Identifying inflammation and free radical damage.
- Gut Health: Highlighting imbalances in gut bacteria that can disrupt hormone metabolism.
- Melatonin Levels: Evaluating disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythm.
By analyzing these markers alongside hormone levels, saliva testing offers a comprehensive view of your body’s metabolic and hormonal health.
Who Should Consider the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test?
The DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test is ideal for anyone experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance or chronic stress, including:
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and Low Energy: Persistent tiredness, poor stamina, or brain fog.
- Mood Swings: Irritability, anxiety, depression, or difficulty managing stress.
- Reproductive Issues: Irregular periods, infertility, low libido, or symptoms of menopause.
- Weight Changes: Unexplained weight gain, muscle loss, or difficulty losing weight.
- Sleep Problems: Insomnia, disrupted circadian rhythms, or poor sleep quality (related to melatonin).
- Chronic Stress Symptoms: Sleep disturbances, headaches, weakened immunity, or poor stress resilience.
- Metabolic and Gut Health Concerns: Digestive issues, oxidative stress, and nutritional deficiencies that may impact hormone function.
Ideal candidates include:
- Men and women experiencing hormone-related symptoms
- Perimenopausal and menopausal women
- Men with symptoms of low testosterone (e.g., fatigue, weight gain, or low libido)
- Individuals under chronic stress or experiencing adrenal fatigue
- Those with sleep issues, poor circadian rhythms, or suspected melatonin imbalances
- Individuals with digestive concerns or suspected nutrient deficiencies impacting hormones
Hormonal Health for The Woodlands and Greater Houston
Based in The Woodlands and serving the Greater Houston area, Internal Healing & Wellness MD provides accurate at-home hormone saliva testing. With the option of online appointments, we can also assist patients nationwide, ensuring access to personalized care and support wherever you are.
Ready to take control of your hormonal health? Discover the DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test today, which provides a more comprehensive look at your hormones and metabolism. Visit our DUTCH Plus® Test page to learn more or contact us to get started on your journey toward better health.
How The Saliva Testing Process Works
The process for getting your DUTCH Plus® Hormone Test is simple and straightforward:
1. Easy Collection
You will receive a collection kit and follow the instructions to collect saliva samples at specific times based on your health concerns.
2. Send Samples for Analysis
Once collected, simply send your samples to our certified lab for analysis.
3. Accurate Reporting
Your results will reflect both the active hormone levels and their metabolites, offering a detailed snapshot of your hormonal balance.
4. Personalized Treatment
Our functional medicine team will use your results to create a customized treatment plan, addressing imbalances holistically.
Frequently Asked Questions
The DUTCH Plus® test is highly accurate for measuring free, bioavailable hormones—the active forms your body uses. It provides a dynamic view of daily hormone patterns, including the cortisol awakening response (CAR), for reliable and actionable results.
Yes, the DUTCH Plus® test is one of the most effective methods for evaluating adrenal function. By measuring cortisol and cortisone levels throughout the day and assessing the cortisol awakening response (CAR), it identifies adrenal fatigue, dysfunction, or excess stress hormone production.
For individuals experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, it is recommended to test every 6–12 months to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
No, the DUTCH Plus® test is designed for at-home sample collection. We provide the kit, and offer both in-office and online consultations to review your results and discuss treatment options.
Absolutely. Men can experience hormonal imbalances such as low testosterone, adrenal dysfunction, or DHEA deficiencies, which may cause fatigue, weight gain, low libido, or mood changes. The DUTCH Plus® test helps identify and address these issues.
Unlike blood testing, which measures total hormone levels, the DUTCH Plus® test measures free, bioavailable hormones and their metabolites. It also captures daily patterns of cortisol and the cortisol awakening response, offering a clearer and more dynamic picture of hormone function.
Once your samples are mailed to the lab, results are typically available within 7–10 business days.
Yes, we ship DUTCH Plus® testing kits nationwide and offer online appointments to review results and provide personalized treatment plans.
All instructions are included with your DUTCH Plus® test kit to ensure smooth and accurate sample collection. Typically, you’ll avoid caffeine, alcohol, high-sodium meals, and hormone creams close to collection times.
Once your results are ready, our team provides a detailed analysis of your hormone levels, metabolites, and cortisol patterns. Based on these insights, we develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hormone saliva testing may be performed for a variety of reasons, including evaluating symptoms of hormonal imbalances, identifying potential causes of infertility, and monitoring hormone replacement therapy.
Hormone saliva testing can detect imbalances in a variety of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones.
No, hormone saliva testing is a non-invasive and painless procedure.
You can find a healthcare provider who performs hormone saliva testing by asking for referrals from your primary care physician or searching online for practitioners in your area. Be sure to check their credentials and ask about their experience with hormone saliva testing.
Yes, hormone saliva testing kits are available for home use, but it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if this is a suitable option.
Hormone saliva testing may be covered by insurance, but coverage varies depending on the individual's insurance plan and the reason for the testing.
Your healthcare provider will provide instructions on how to prepare for hormone saliva testing, which may include avoiding certain medications or dietary restrictions.
The time it takes to get results from hormone saliva testing varies depending on the laboratory and the specific tests being performed. Results take approximately two weeks.
Stay Informed on the Latest Health & Wellness Tips
Subscribe to our newsletter and receive regular updates on integrative approaches to health, the latest research, and wellness tips from our experts.
Start your journey to better health today!
Enter your email address below to stay connected:
Book Your Consultation Today
During your first 60-minute functional televisit, we will try to figure out what’s causing your current health problems. Contact us today at Internal Healing and Wellness MD in the Houston area and The Woodlands, we will make sure to provide you with a personalized functional medicine-based treatment plan so that you can begin working towards your goal of a better, healthier life.
Testimonials
Our 5-Star Reviews
Discover why our clients rave about our services in our review section. Hear their stories, read their feedback, and see why our services are making a real difference.
Contact Us
Start Your Holistic Wellness Journey Today
In search of a functional medicine doctor in The Woodlands? Dr. Khan and his experienced team are at your service, ready to help you make life-changing strides toward your health and wellness goals.
Contact Info
Our Location
255 Ed English Dr
Suite A
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Our Schedule
9AM-5PM Monday - Friday
Get In Touch
For functional medicine inquiries, contact our experienced functional medicine doctors. We take a holistic approach to improving health and well-being.