Step-by-Step Guide to the DUTCH Plus + Cycle Mapping Test

DUTCH Plus + Cycle Mapping

Guide by Herbaceous Naturopathy

Welcome to our handy step-by-step guide for the DUTCH Plus + Cycle Mapping test. This test provides a comprehensive assessment of your sex hormones and adrenal health, including a full Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) and hormone fluctuations throughout your cycle. Please follow these steps to ensure accurate collection.

1. Prepare for Your Test

✿ Confirm Your Cycle Length: This test tracks hormone fluctuations throughout your entire menstrual cycle. Start on day 7 of your cycle (where day 1 = first day of your period).

✿ Avoid Certain Substances (if possible, check with your practitioner):

• Caffeine & alcohol (24 hours before each sample)

• High-intensity exercise (24 hours before each sample)

• Hormone supplements (check with Tahlia if you are unsure)

✿ Hydration: Drink water as usual but avoid excessive fluids before collection.

2. Collect Your Urine & Saliva Samples

You will collect:
✿ Urine Samples Daily for an entire cycle (oestrogen & progesterone mapping)
✿ 5 Saliva Samples in One Day (for Cortisol Awakening Response - CAR)

Urine Collection (Cycle Mapping - Oestrogen & Progesterone Levels)

✿ Collect one urine sample per day on the test strip, starting from day 7 of your cycle until the start of your next period.

✿ Allow each test strip to dry completely before storing.

Tip: Pick a consistent time each day to collect your urine sample for the most accurate results.

Saliva Collection (Cortisol Awakening Response - CAR)

This is collected on one single day (chosen by your practitioner, usually during mid-cycle or based on symptoms).

Collection times:

✿ Immediately upon waking (before getting out of bed)

✿ 30 minutes after waking

✿ 60 minutes after waking

✿ Before dinner

✿ Before bed

Tip: Set reminders to ensure you collect your saliva samples at the correct times.

3. Store & Ship Your Samples

• Let urine samples dry completely before sealing them in the collection envelope.

• Store saliva samples in the freezer until all are collected.

• Follow the shipping instructions provided in your test kit and send your samples promptly.

4. Review Your Results with Tahlia

• Your results will be analysed by our qualified naturopath.

• Once ready, we’ll contact you to schedule a consultation where we’ll interpret your results and develop a personalised hormone-balancing plan.