Ordering the DUTCH Cycle Mapping Test
The DUTCH Cycle Mapping Test from Precision Analytical tracks estrogen and progesterone patterns throughout the menstrual cycle, providing a detailed hormone profile for each phase. This test is especially useful for those with irregular cycles, fertility concerns, or unexplained symptoms related to hormone changes. Interestingly, this test can also help identify subtle hormone shifts that may not show up in single-day hormone tests, offering a more complete picture of monthly hormone changes.
Ordering this test gives you:
- A clear chart of estrogen and progesterone changes across your entire cycle
- Insight into ovulation timing and luteal phase health
- Data to help address symptoms like PMS, mood swings, or cycle-related headaches
- Support for fertility planning and understanding cycle irregularities
- Information to guide targeted hormone therapy or lifestyle changes
Who Should Consider Hormone Cycle Mapping
People who experience unpredictable periods, mood changes, or symptoms like fatigue and headaches that seem to follow a monthly pattern may benefit from this test. For example, someone who feels tired and irritable before their period, but better after, could use this test to see how their hormone levels change during the month.
Ordering may also be helpful in these situations:
- Trying to get pregnant and wanting to confirm ovulation timing
- Experiencing PMS or PMDD symptoms that disrupt daily routines
- Having irregular cycles after stopping birth control
- Dealing with unexplained hair loss or skin changes that seem to follow a cycle
- Tracking hormone patterns after a partial hysterectomy with ovaries still present, which is less commonly discussed but can impact symptoms
This test is recommended for those who want to see how their hormones shift throughout the month, which can help explain symptoms and guide treatment. Delaying this test may mean missing the best window to catch hormone changes that only happen at certain times in the cycle, making it harder to find answers.
Preparing for Menstrual Cycle Hormone Testing
Fasting is not required for this test, but you will need to collect urine samples at specific times during your cycle. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare provider to make sure your results are as helpful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your DUTCH Cycle Mapping Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Marker Means | Low and High Levels of DUTCH Cycle Mapping Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estradiol (E2) | Follicular: 15-80 Ovulatory: 80-300 Luteal: 30-200 |
Estradiol is the main estrogen in the body and changes throughout the menstrual cycle. It helps control ovulation, egg development, and the growth of the uterine lining. |
High levels mean estrogen dominance, which can cause heavy periods, breast tenderness, or mood swings.
Low levels mean possible missed ovulation, thin uterine lining, or symptoms like hot flashes and low energy. |
| Estrone (E1) | Follicular: 10-50 Ovulatory: 30-120 Luteal: 20-90 |
Estrone is another type of estrogen that works with estradiol to support the menstrual cycle. It is important for hormone balance and can be higher after menopause. |
High levels mean increased risk for estrogen-related symptoms or conditions.
Low levels mean possible hormone deficiency, which may affect cycle regularity. |
| Alpha-pregnanediol (urinary progesterone marker) | Luteal: 500-3000 | Alpha-pregnanediol is a breakdown product of progesterone found in urine. It shows how much progesterone your body makes after ovulation. |
High levels mean strong progesterone production, which supports a healthy luteal phase.
Low levels mean possible luteal phase defect, which can cause short cycles or trouble getting pregnant. |
| Beta-pregnanediol (urinary progesterone marker) | Luteal: 500-3000 | Beta-pregnanediol is another urinary marker for progesterone. It helps confirm if ovulation has happened and if progesterone levels are high enough for the second half of the cycle. |
High levels mean good progesterone support for the uterine lining.
Low levels mean possible ovulation problems or short luteal phase. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
DUTCH Cycle Mapping Test FAQ
Is there DUTCH Cycle Mapping testing near me?
This is a home test kit, so you can collect your samples locally and send them in, making it easier to track hormone changes without needing to travel for blood draws. For those with unpredictable cycles or busy schedules, this helps you collect samples at the right time without added stress—check the draw location link at the top of the page for more details.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your hormone patterns and what they mean for your symptoms.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see includes standard shipping to you and back to the lab, but some locations may charge a draw fee. Ordering this test can help you find out if hormone changes are causing your symptoms, so you can get answers and start feeling better sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3-6 months, especially if you are making changes to your treatment or tracking cycle changes, so you can see how your hormone patterns respond over time.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses dried urine collection and advanced mass spectrometry to measure hormone levels, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- This test is available in the US (except New York and Maryland) and Canada. Contact us with questions.
- This test is intended for women with cycling ovaries who are menstruating OR women who are not menstruating because they have had a partial hysterectomy (ovaries intact) or ablation.
- This test is not intended for women who are not cycling, on hormonal birth control, or hormone replacement therapy, or are post-menopausal, unless otherwise instructed by your primary doctor.
- Suppose you are using cycle-suppressive therapies such as Lupron or oral contraceptives. In that case, you should be advised against doing DUTCH Cycle Mapping because these drugs decrease cyclic endogenous hormone production, which the DUTCH Cycle Mapping test measures. Please check with your primary care physician before taking the test.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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