What is the purpose of this test?
The Female Blood Spot Profile II - ZRT Test Kit is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed to evaluate the levels of various hormones and other important markers in a woman's body. The test measures the levels of hormones such as estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA-S, as well as thyroid markers, cortisol, and other important parameters that can provide a more complete picture of a woman's hormonal health. This test is particularly useful in identifying hormonal imbalances that may be causing symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, hot flashes, insomnia, and low sex drive, among others. It can also help detect underlying health conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, adrenal insufficiency, and PCOS.
The Female Blood Spot Profile II - ZRT Test Kit is a convenient and non-invasive way to get a comprehensive hormonal assessment from the comfort of your own home. The kit includes easy-to-follow instructions for collecting a small blood sample from your fingertip and mailing it to a laboratory for analysis. The results are then sent back to you with detailed explanations of what each marker means, as well as recommendations for natural therapies or other interventions to address any imbalances that are detected. Overall, this test can be an invaluable tool for any woman who wants to gain a deeper understanding of her hormonal health and take proactive steps to optimize it.
The Female Blood Spot Profile II - ZRT Test Kit includes the following:
Female Blood Profile I:
- Estradiol - Estradiol is a hormone that is mainly responsible for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.
- Progesterone - Progesterone is a hormone that plays a role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. It helps prepare the uterus for the implantation of a fertilized egg and is important for maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
- Testosterone - Testosterone is a hormone that is mainly found in males, but females also produce it in smaller amounts. It plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues such as the testes and prostate, and is also responsible for the development of secondary sex characteristics such as muscle mass and body hair.
- SHBG - SHBG stands for Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin, which is a protein that binds to and transports sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen in the bloodstream. It helps regulate the levels of these hormones in the body and can affect their availability to tissues and cells.
- DHEAS - DHEAS stands for Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate, which is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. It is a precursor to other hormones like testosterone and estrogen and plays a role in the development of male and female sex characteristics. DHEAS levels can be used to assess adrenal function and can also be an indicator of certain medical conditions.
- Cortisol - Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland in response to stress. It is often called the "stress hormone" because it helps the body cope with stress by increasing blood sugar levels and suppressing the immune system. It also plays a role in the regulation of blood pressure, the immune system, and the sleep-wake cycle.
Complete Thyroid Profile:
- TSH - TSH stands for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. It is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain that regulates the production of thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland. High levels of TSH indicate an underactive thyroid, while low levels indicate an overactive thyroid.
- Free T3 - Free T3 is a hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland in the body. It plays an important role in regulating metabolism and energy levels. Free T3 is the active form of the hormone, which is not bound to any proteins in the blood and is readily available for use by the body's cells.
- Free T4 - Free T4 is a hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland in the body. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and controlling energy levels. Free T4 is the inactive form of the hormone that is bound to proteins in the blood until it is converted into the active form, Free T3, which can be used by the body's cells.
- TPO - TPO stands for Thyroid Peroxidase, an enzyme that is produced by the thyroid gland. TPO helps convert the inactive form of thyroid hormone into the active form. High TPO levels may indicate an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Benefits of the Female Blood Spot Profile II - ZRT Test Kit:
- Hormonal Balance Assessment: The test kit may measure key hormones, such as estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA, providing insights into hormonal balance. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to various health issues in females.
- Menstrual Cycle Monitoring: The test kit may help monitor hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle. This information can be valuable for understanding menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, or premenstrual symptoms.
- Menopause and Perimenopause Evaluation: For women approaching or going through menopause, the test kit may provide information about hormone levels during perimenopause and menopause, aiding in managing symptoms.
- Thyroid Function Testing: This kit includes thyroid hormone testing, assessing markers such as TSH, T3, and T4, which can provide information about thyroid function and potential imbalances.
- Stress Hormone Assessment: Cortisol levels, which can be assessed in blood spot testing, offer insights into the body's stress response. Chronic stress can impact hormonal balance and overall health.
- Insulin Resistance Evaluation: Some kits may include markers related to insulin sensitivity, providing information about metabolic health and potential risks for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Adrenal Function Monitoring: Adrenal hormones like cortisol and DHEA-S can be assessed, offering insights into the adrenal function and potential imbalances that may affect energy levels and stress response.
- Personalized Health Information:Results from the test kit can provide personalized information about an individual's hormone levels, helping guide lifestyle and dietary choices for better hormonal health.
- Convenience and Privacy: The blood spot testing method offers the convenience of collecting samples at home, and it may appeal to individuals who value privacy when addressing sensitive health issues.
When should I order a Female Blood Spot Profile II - ZRT Test Kit?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to a hormone imbalance. Common signs or symptoms of a hormone imbalance include:
- Irregular periods
- Heavy or painful periods
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Fatigue
- Mood swings, depression, or anxiety
- Insomnia
- Decreased sex drive
- Dry skin or hair
- Hair loss or thinning
- Facial hair growth
- Acne or oily skin
- Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Hot flashes or night sweats
Sample ReportPreparation:No fasting is required. Specimen must be sent to lab by overnight mail Monday-Thursday only. Please read patient instructions very carefully and decide the ideal day for you to begin the test.
Test Results:
5-7 Days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
