Why Saliva Testing is Essential for Monitoring Bioidentical Hormones: A Guide for Evolved Menopause
by Dr. Beth Meneley, DAOM, L.Ac.
When it comes to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), accurately monitoring your hormone levels is crucial for achieving optimal results. At Evolved Menopause, we use saliva testing to provide the most accurate assessment of hormone activity. Unlike traditional blood tests, saliva testing reflects the bioavailable hormones your body is actually using. In this blog, we’ll explore why saliva testing is better for BHRT, the differences between popular testing options like ZRT Labs and the DUTCH Test, and which option is best for you.
Why Blood Tests Aren’t Reliable for Monitoring Bioidentical Hormones
Blood tests, though commonly used, measure total hormone levels, including both bound and free hormones. Bound hormones are inactive because they are attached to proteins, and your body can’t use them. However, blood tests measure both active and inactive forms, leading to an inaccurate picture of the hormone levels that your body can actually use.
This issue becomes even more pronounced with topically applied bioidentical hormones like creams or gels. These hormones are absorbed directly into tissues, bypassing the bloodstream. As a result, blood tests often fail to reflect the actual hormone levels in your body’s tissues. Saliva testing, however, measures the free, active hormones that your body is using, providing a more accurate assessment for those undergoing bioidentical hormone therapy.
The Benefits of Saliva Testing for Bioidentical Hormones
Saliva testing offers several advantages over blood tests, especially when it comes to monitoring bioidentical hormones. Here’s why saliva testing is essential:
Measures Bioavailable Hormones: Saliva testing measures free hormones—the active hormones your body can use—giving a more accurate representation of hormone levels in tissues.
Reflects Tissue Levels: Since topical bioidentical hormones are delivered directly to tissues, saliva testing better reflects the actual hormone levels in those tissues.
Captures Hormonal Fluctuations: Saliva tests can be taken at different times during the day or over a cycle, allowing for a more complete picture of hormone fluctuations, which blood tests often miss.
ZRT Labs vs. DUTCH Test: Which is Best for Bioidentical Hormones?
At Evolved Menopause, we recommend both ZRT Labs and the DUTCH Test for saliva hormone testing, depending on your needs and budget.
1. ZRT Labs: Affordable and Reliable for Basic Hormone Monitoring
For those looking for a cost-effective way to monitor their bioidentical hormone therapy, ZRT Labs is a great option. ZRT offers saliva tests for key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and DHEA. This test provides accurate, reliable data for adjusting hormone therapy without breaking the bank.
Why choose ZRT Labs?
Budget-friendly: ZRT is a more affordable option for those looking for accurate hormone testing.
Accurate for BHRT: It focuses on measuring free, active hormones, making it ideal for monitoring bioidentical hormone therapy.
Easy at-home testing: Saliva samples can be collected at home, making the process convenient and non-invasive.
2. DUTCH Test: Comprehensive Hormone and Metabolism Insights
If you’re looking for a more detailed understanding of your hormones, we recommend the DUTCH Test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones). The DUTCH test offers a comprehensive analysis of hormone levels, adrenal function, and hormone metabolism, providing deeper insights than a basic saliva test. This test is particularly helpful if you have more complex hormone-related symptoms.
The DUTCH test includes:
Hormone Metabolites: Measures not only the hormone levels but also how your body metabolizes and clears these hormones.
Adrenal Function: Includes cortisol measurements to assess stress and adrenal health, which are key factors in hormone balance.
Liver Detox Pathways: Provides insights into how well your liver is processing hormones, important for overall hormone health and reducing cancer risks.
Why choose DUTCH Labs?
Comprehensive hormone analysis: It offers a full picture of hormone levels, stress response, and hormone metabolism.
Ideal for complex cases: If you’re experiencing multiple symptoms or suspect adrenal imbalances, DUTCH gives a more complete picture of your hormone health.
Advanced insights: This test includes information on hormone detoxification and metabolism, which are crucial for maintaining balanced hormone levels over time.
Which Hormone Test is Right for You?
If you’re looking for affordable, effective monitoring of your bioidentical hormone therapy, ZRT Labs is an excellent choice. It provides accurate measurements of key hormones at a lower cost, making it ideal for ongoing hormone management.
However, if you’re dealing with more complex symptoms or want a deeper understanding of your hormone metabolism and adrenal health, the DUTCH Test offers more comprehensive data. This test is especially valuable for those seeking a holistic view of hormone function and its impacts on overall health.
Conclusion: Saliva Testing is Key for Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
At Evolved Menopause, we believe in using the most accurate testing methods to ensure your hormone therapy is tailored to your unique needs. Saliva testing is a powerful tool for monitoring bioidentical hormones, as it measures the free, active hormones your body actually uses. Whether you opt for ZRT Labs for budget-friendly monitoring or the DUTCH Test for a comprehensive hormone analysis, saliva testing provides the insights needed to thrive through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond.
Contact us at Evolved Menopause to learn more about how saliva hormone testing can support your journey toward balanced health and well-being.
