Testing
Vaginal Microbiome Test
The vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy reproductive environment. A balanced microbiome helps to create an optimal pH level and prevents the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
This balance is essential for fertility because of:-
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Sperm survival – a healthy microbiome promotes an environment where sperm can thrive and survive longer
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Preventing infections - maintaining the right balance of bacteria improves immunity and helps prevent infections that can adversely impact infertility
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Uterine health - an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome can cause inflammation and influences the health of the uterus, affecting implantation and the early stage of pregnancy
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Cervical mucus - the microbiome influences the composition of the cervical mucus, which is vital for sperm transport and fertilisation
Symptoms that indicate an imbalance of the vaginal flora and PH include:-
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Recurrent thrush
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Recurrent UTIs
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Bacterial vaginosis
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No cervical mucus
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Non fertile mucus/discharge throughout the cycle
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Smelly, itchy discharge
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Imbalances in the vaginal microbiome such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections have been associated with miscarriage pre-term birth and infertility. Maintaining good vaginal health through proper hygiene and seeking medical advice if any issues arise is essential for fertility support.
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At Conceive, we use the company, In Vivo, to test the vaginal microbiome. Our Functional Medicine Practitioner, Anga, can review the results, offer you advice and prescribe you treatment if needed.
Gut Microbiome Test
The gut microbiome also plays a role in reproductive health. It affects nutrient absorption, hormone regulation and immune function, all of which are essential for fertility. For example, the gut bacteria are involved in the metabolism of oestrogen, a hormone crucial for female fertility. Disruptions in this metabolism may affect the levels of oestrogen and consequently interfere with ovulation and normal menstrual cycles.
A healthy gut microbiome with a diverse and balanced community of bacteria helps maintain a favourable hormonal balance necessary for proper ovulation and menstrual cycle regulation. Imbalances in the gut microbiome have also been linked to conditions such as PCOS and endometriosis, both of which cause fertility issues.
At Conceive, we use the company, In Vivo to test the gut microbiome. Our Functional Medicine Practitioner, Anga, can review the results, offer you dietary advice and prescribe you supplements as appropriate.
The DUTCH Test
The DUTCH test provides a unique and comprehensive assessment of 35 sex and adrenal hormones and there metabolites, using dried urine. Some of the hormones tested include oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA and cortisol. These are combined with measurements for melatonin, dopamine, tryptophan, markers for vitamin B6,12 and biotin and markers for oxidative stress.
The DUTCH test can be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of PMT, PMDD, PCOS, infertility, menopause, low libido, fatigue, weight gain, sleep disturbance, mood disorders and prostate disorders in men.
It can also be used at different times of the cycle to establish the hormonal pattern throughout the cycle. This type of test would be indicated for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, PMT, irregular periods, mid cycle, spotting, migraines and symptoms associated with hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
The DUTCH test is easily performed, using paper filter strips, and it saves the need for a blood test. Our Functional Medicine Practitioner Anga Gonzalez, is able to interpret the results and advise on treatment accordingly.