Dutch Test InstructionsUpdated 3 months ago

Dr. Anna has instructed women taking the DUTCH test to follow the instructions that come with the test, but with these additional instructions/changes. These are notes from her instructions given to women in both the Girlfriend Doctor Club and the Magic Menopause live classes about taking the test. 

Two big considerations:

• Women who have irregular cycles may need as many as 40 days prior to taking the DUTCH test, so it’s important to prioritize taking the test as quickly as possible if planning to attend a DUTCH test class with Dr. Anna.

• If just starting B-HRT, Dr. Anna recommends waiting about 6-8 weeks after starting before doing the DUTCH test. This time frame allows hormone levels to stabilize, giving a clearer picture of how the body is responding to the therapy. If they need to get the DUTCH test done for the class with Dr. Anna, they should probably wait for the B-HRT until afterwards.

• Timing of DUTCH Test

  • Timing with your cycle

    • If cycling, do the test on days 20 and 21

    • If not cycling, do the test anytime

    • If irregular cycles

      • Use two pumps of Balance cream daily for 10 days OR take oral progesterone (if prescribed by your doctor)

      • Wait 10 days to see if a cycle starts

        • If the cycle starts, do the test on Days 20 and 21

        • If the cycle doesn’t start, take the test anytime

• Timing of Hormones

  • No vaginal/vulvar hormones for three days before the test - this includes Julva. 

  • Take all other regular hormones before the test, but NO hormones THE DAY OF THE TEST

  • If on Estrogen patches

    • If using patches twice a week, do the testing the day before you change your patch

    • If using patches once a week, do the testing midway between patch changes

  • If on pellets

    • Wait 2-3 months after pellets are inserted and do the test

    • Repeat testing should be done at the same interval

• Supplements and Food

  • Stop any supplements that might affect hormone levels before the test

    • Mighty Maca and Menopause capsules (these also contain quercetin)

    • Adaptogens like maca, Rhodiola, and ashwagandha

  • Some supplements may impact the HVA organic acid result. If you take any of the following, please consult your provider: Tyrosine, L-Dopa, D, L-Phenylalanine, (DLPA), Mucuna and Quercetin. (This is from the DUTCH test instructions, which Dr. Anna said to follow and avoid these for a few days)

  • Stop high-dose vitamin C and vitamin D at least three days prior to the DUTCH test