confused about saliva vs. bloodwork accuracy for hormone testing
 

Interesting.

I really don't know one way or the other, but if I were to hypothesize, i'd expect the blood to be more stable and more reliable than the saliva, due to oral hydration conditions, even if the test were repeated. But as I said, I really don't know.

However, I did remember MrsD posting something about this so I looked up her post...:

Quote:

Originally Posted by bizi (Post 816679) I had the saliva hormone test done and my progesterone is low and my cortisol was high

and in reply:

Quote:

Originally Posted by MrsD (Post 817394) The saliva tests are not as accurate as the blood work IMO.

Bizi, I also don't know whether, that time, you had a single saliva sample or if it was repeated 4 times. And perhaps your doctor informed you that the 4 times a day test is as good or better than blood work? I am confused because MrsD usually posts reliable information, so i thought i'd toss this out here. Please would you indicate your source (your doctor, other)? Thanks very much. :)

And MrsD, if you are reading, perhaps you could provide clarifications/insight on your position also? Thanks. :)

:grouphug:

~ waves ~

my pdoc ordered my saliva test for my hormones, estrogen progesterone and then the cortisol one came with it. This was just the one time level. The professional pharmacy had a test that was for 4 saliva specimans one before each meal and at bed time I think....
I think I remember reading somewhere that our cortisal levels change under stress which also leads to weight gain.
sorry no sources....
bizi

Hi bizi! The internist said that I can't do the saliva test because I am on birth control pills. Somehow that renders the saliva cortisol test inaccurate. So that's why she ordered it in the bloodwork. :Heart: