DUTCH Sex Hormone Metabolites

DUTCH Sex Hormone Metabolites measures a wide range of sex hormone metabolites using dried urine samples analyzed by GC-MS/MS (gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry) technology. The test focuses on estrogen, progesterone, and androgen metabolites, and the results are normalized to creatinine to provide values comparable to those obtained from 24-hour urine collections, without requiring all-day urine collection.

This test can be clinically useful when specialists seek a detailed picture of sex hormone metabolism, beyond simply measuring hormone levels at a single point in time. It allows for observing relative hormone production patterns and the balance between different metabolites, aspects that can be related to mood, energy levels, body composition, or the reproductive stage of life.

Typically, specialists interpret the results in conjunction with symptom history, age, sex, menstrual status, lifestyle factors, and other relevant laboratory investigations. The observed patterns are analyzed in context to support informed discussions with patients, either during an initial evaluation or for monitoring progress over time, when necessary.

Recommended for: 

Women

• Fatigue or low energy levels: persistent state of tiredness or reduced endurance.
• Low mood or depression: changes in emotional state, sense of well-being, or motivation.
• Reduced libido: decreased sexual desire or sexual satisfaction.
• Premenstrual symptoms: premenstrual syndrome (PMS), irritability, or mood swings before menstruation.
• Transition to menopause: changes associated with menopause, such as sleep disturbances or hot flashes.
• Weight gain: gradual or unexplained increase in body weight.

Men

• Fatigue or low energy levels: continuous state of tiredness or reduction in energy and physical vitality.
• Low mood or depression: persistent state of sadness, lack of motivation, or diminished interest in usual activities.
• Decreased sexual appetite: diminished libido or changes in sexual performance.
• Sleep disturbances: difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Hair loss: thinning hair or changes in hair growth pattern.
• Weight gain: accumulation of abdominal fat or general increase in body weight.