Why Do Saliva Testing?
Saliva measures the “unbound” biologically active or free hormone levels in the body:
When blood is filtered through the salivary glands, the bound hormone components are too large to pass through the cell membranes of the salivary glands. Only the unbound hormones pass through and into the saliva. What is measured in the saliva is considered the “free”, or bio-available hormone, that which will be delivered to the receptors in the tissues of the body.
Serum measures the “protein bound” biologically inactive hormone levels in the body:
In order for steroid hormones to be detected in serum, they must be bound to circulating proteins. In this bound state, they are unable to fit into receptors in the body, and therefore will not be delivered to tissues. They are considered inactive, or non-bioavailable.
Only saliva testing measures topically dosed hormones:
The discrepancy between free and protein-bound hormones becomes especially important when monitoring topical, or transdermal, hormone therapy. Studies show that this method of delivery results in increased tissue hormone levels (thus measurable in saliva), but no parallel increase in serum levels. Therefore, serum testing cannot be used to monitor topical hormone therapy.
Who Should be Tested?
Women concerned with changing hormone levels or are still cycling and experiencing PMS symptoms. Also, peri- & post-menopausal women concerned with their estradiol & progesterone levels for baseline and future replacement considerations, and any woman who is experiencing fatigue, insomnia, stress, immunity problems, blood sugar problems, or is overweight should be tested for cortisol & hormone levels.
Which Hormones Need to be Tested?
Estrogens (estrone, estradiol, and estriol)
Progesterone: prevents against estrogen dominance
Testosterone: heart & bone health, stamina
DHEA: energy & blood sugar balance
24-hour Cortisol: adrenal health status, blood sugar balance, etc.
DHT: scalp hair loss, acne, hirsutism
Saliva testing is an easy and noninvasive way to assess hormone balance & is proving to be the most reliable medium for measuring hormone levels and represents only hormones actively delivered to receptors in the body. It is far more relevant to test these bio-available hormones & provide an accurate reflection of your body’s active hormone levels.
A simple urine test for neurotransmitters should be a consideration when hormonal symptoms including cycle irregularities, bloating/fluid retention, acne or increased body hair, infertility, hair loss, irritability, weight changes, decreases in bone or muscle mass or metabolic changes are also a concern.
Women who are proactive about their health should consider routine saliva & neurotransmitter testing for neuro-hormone balance.
We offer a variety of convenient and affordable testing options to help you reach your wellness goals. Comprehensive and basic panels for hormone, adrenal and neurotransmitter testing are available with or without a consultation depending on your personal preference. Results will be provided via email.