Female Hormone & Diurnal Cortisol Test (Small)
Measure E2, Progesterone, Testosterone, and 4-point Cortisol (CAR). NY-approved at-home saliva kit for adrenal fatigue and hormone balance. Get digital results.
Product details: USD 249 — InStock — SKU gettested_female_hormone_and_diurnal_cortisol_test_small_test — GetTested
About this test
How It Works
You collect saliva samples at home at four time points during the same day: upon waking, 30 minutes after waking, around midday or in the afternoon, and at night.
The samples are then sent to a CLIA-certified laboratory for analysis, and your results are delivered digitally once testing is complete (normally .
Saliva Collection
The test uses saliva samples collected at home.
This non-invasive method allows for multiple collections throughout the day, making it possible to assess how cortisol levels change over time. Samples are collected according to the schedule provided in your kit and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR)
A key component of this test is the cortisol awakening response (CAR), the natural increase in cortisol that occurs shortly after waking.
This measurement provides additional context to daily cortisol patterns and helps illustrate how hormone levels change in the early part of the day.
Sex Hormones and Cortisol Patterns
In addition to cortisol, the test measures estradiol (E2), progesterone, and testosterone.
Evaluating these hormones together with cortisol patterns provides insight into how different hormonal systems interact and fluctuate over the course of the day.
Preparation Instructions
Collect your samples according to the schedule provided in your kit.
Avoid eating, drinking (except water), brushing teeth, or smoking at least 30 minutes before each collection.
Who Should Consider This Test
This test is relevant for individuals who want insight into both sex hormones and daily cortisol patterns.
It may be particularly useful when exploring hormonal balance, energy levels, sleep patterns, or overall hormone-related variation throughout the day.
Understanding CLIA Certification
Your samples are analyzed in a CLIA-certified laboratory, ensuring that testing is performed according to established U.S. quality standards using validated methods.
Biomarkers included
- Estradiol (E2): Reproductive hormones — Estradiol is the most biologically active form of estrogen in the body. It plays a central role in reproductive health, regulating the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and fertility. Estradiol also affects bone density, cardiovascular health, brain function, and metabolism. Levels vary throughout the menstrual cycle and across different life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Measuring e
- Testosterone: Reproductive hormones — Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, although it is also produced in smaller amounts in women. It plays a crucial role in male reproductive development, muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive. In women, testosterone contributes to libido, muscle mass, and bone health. Imbalances can lead to various issues, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction (in men), fatigue, loss of muscl
- Progesterone: Reproductive hormones — Progesterone is a female sex hormone primarily produced by the ovaries after ovulation and by the placenta during pregnancy. It plays a crucial role in preparing the uterus for pregnancy, maintaining pregnancy, and regulating the menstrual cycle. Progesterone levels naturally fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. Low levels can lead to irregular periods, difficulty conceiving, or complications
- Cortisol: Adrenal hormones — Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, known as the body's primary stress hormone. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure, making its levels important for assessing stress response and adrenal function.
How to prepare
Avoid food, caffeine, and tobacco for at least 30 minutes prior to collection. Rinse mouth with water 5 minutes before each sample.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate are saliva tests compared to blood tests?
Saliva measures 'free' (unbound) hormones, which are the bioavailable portion active in your tissues. Blood tests typically measure 'total' hormones, which may not accurately reflect cellular activity or the impact your hormones have on your symptoms.
Why do I need to collect cortisol four times in one day?
Cortisol follows a natural daily pattern known as a diurnal rhythm. Levels are typically highest shortly after waking and gradually decline throughout the day. Measuring cortisol at several time points helps illustrate how your cortisol levels change from morning to evening rather than providing only a single snapshot. The first two morning samples capture the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR), while later samples help evaluate how cortisol levels decline throughout the day.
Can I take this test if I live in New York?
Yes. This specific panel is fully compliant with New York's CLEP regulations, allowing for legal shipping and processing for NY residents, which is rare for many at-home hormone kits.
What is the collection schedule?
You will collect four samples: immediately upon waking, exactly 30 minutes later, at noon or early evening, and right before bed. Avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth for 30 minutes prior to each collection to ensure sample purity.
Customer reviews
4.6/5 (5)
- 4/5 — Good test, though the 30-minute waking window is a bit stressful to hit perfectly.
- 4/5 — Finally a kit that ships to New York! Results took about 9 days but the data was very detailed.
- 5/5 — Fast shipping and clear instructions.
- 5/5 — Exactly what I needed to check my cortisol levels.
- 5/5 — Super easy to use and I finally got some answers about my morning fatigue.