Ordering the Salivary Test | Cortisol and Androstenedione
Salivary testing for cortisol and androstenedione helps measure stress hormone patterns and androgen levels throughout the day. These markers are often used to check for hormone imbalances that may affect energy, mood, and focus. Interestingly, cortisol levels naturally rise and fall in a daily rhythm, and disruptions in this pattern can be linked to sleep problems and changes in weight.
Ordering this test provides several specific benefits:
- Tracks cortisol at four points in one day to reveal daily hormone patterns.
- Measures androstenedione, a key hormone related to adrenal and reproductive function.
- Uses a simple saliva sample, making collection easy and non-invasive.
- Helps identify hormone-related causes of fatigue, mood changes, and memory issues.
- Supports targeted treatment plans for hormone therapy or stress management.
Who Should Consider Hormone and Stress Marker Testing
People who feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, struggle with mood swings, or notice changes in memory or focus may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been feeling unusually anxious and irritable for several weeks, despite no major changes in their daily routine, might find this test helpful in identifying a possible hormone imbalance.
Ordering this test may also be useful in these situations:
- Experiencing ongoing fatigue that does not improve with rest
- Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Noticing unexplained weight gain, especially around the midsection
- Dealing with frequent mood changes or irritability
- Finding it hard to concentrate or remember things, even when stress seems low
Testing for these markers can help pinpoint the cause of symptoms like low energy, poor sleep, or mood changes by showing if hormone levels are out of balance. Delaying this test may mean missing the chance to address hormone issues early, which could make symptoms last longer or become harder to manage.
Preparing for Saliva-Based Hormone Testing
Fasting is not required for this test, but it is important to follow the timing and collection instructions provided in your test kit. Always go by any specific directions from your doctor or healthcare provider to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Salivary Test | Cortisol and Androstenedione
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Marker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cortisol (Morning) | 3.7 – 9.5 | Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps control stress, energy, and metabolism. Morning levels are usually highest and show how your body responds to waking up. |
High levels mean your body may be under stress or your adrenal glands are overactive.
Low levels mean your adrenal glands may not be making enough cortisol, which can cause tiredness and low energy. |
| Cortisol (Noon) | 1.2 – 3.0 | Noon cortisol shows how your stress hormone levels change as the day goes on. It helps spot abnormal drops or rises that may affect mood and focus. |
High levels mean ongoing stress or hormone imbalance.
Low levels mean possible adrenal fatigue or low hormone production. |
| Cortisol (Afternoon) | 0.6 – 1.9 | Afternoon cortisol helps track if your hormone levels are dropping as expected. This can affect energy and alertness later in the day. |
High levels mean your body may be staying in a stressed state.
Low levels mean your adrenal glands may be slowing down too much. |
| Cortisol (Night) | 0.4 – 1.0 | Nighttime cortisol should be lowest, helping your body get ready for sleep. High levels at night can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. |
High levels mean your body may not be winding down, which can cause sleep problems.
Low levels mean your hormone pattern is normal for nighttime. |
| Androstenedione | 32 – 240 | Androstenedione is a hormone made by the adrenal glands and ovaries or testes. It is a building block for other hormones like testosterone and estrogen. |
High levels mean possible hormone imbalance, which can cause acne, hair changes, or irregular periods.
Low levels mean your body may not be making enough hormones for normal function. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their standards or methods.
Salivary Test | Cortisol and Androstenedione FAQ
Is there Salivary Test | Cortisol and Androstenedione testing near me?
This is a home test kit, so you can collect your saliva sample locally and send it to the lab; check the draw location link at the top of the page. For people dealing with ongoing fatigue or stress symptoms, having a convenient collection option means you can get tested without extra travel or waiting.
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 listed for this test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find out if hormone imbalances are causing your symptoms, so you can start feeling better sooner.
How often should I retest?
It is usually recommended to retest every 3 to 6 months, especially if you are making changes to your treatment or lifestyle. Regular testing helps track how your hormone levels respond to changes and supports better symptom management.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses enzyme immunoassay (EIA) technology for saliva samples, 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 can not be collected or mailed from New York State. Contact us with questions.
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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