Blood cortisol testing

[Blister4]

Is there a specific time during a woman’s monthly cycle when it’s better test cortisol levels or does it not matter? X

[humanbean]

According to this link :

stopthethyroidmadness.com/s...

For women, it may be important to wait until after a period and before mid-cycle. Why? Rising progesterone can affect cortisol to some degree in some people. If your periods are weird, or you are meno, don’t worry about when.

I would suggest that, whatever day of your cycle you use to do your test, make sure that you note it down and use the same day for any future saliva cortisol tests.

[SeasideSusie Remembering]

Yes, according to Regenerus collection should be during the mid-luteal phase. The instructions that come with your kit should have these instructions.

Are you going to be sending for an adrenal saliva test? If so then you need one that tests both cortisol plus DHEA and that has proper reference ranges. Both Regenerus and Genova Diagnostics do this test which is far superior to a test which only measures cortisol.

Details on ThyroidUK's main website here:

thyroiduk.org/tuk/testing/p...

[Blister4 in reply to SeasideSusie]

Thankyou ladies that’s very helpful.

My gp laughed when I presented him with saliva cortisol results and would not acknowledge it. They do however take note of blood cortisol. I will do a saliva/DHEA for my own personal use.

Thanks again for quick reply. X

[SeasideSusie Remembering in reply to Blister4]

Obviously my brain isn't in gear, I've just realised your question was about blood cortisol testing - duh! My apologies! I don't know about timing of test/cycle for blood testing.

[Hidden]

For blood cortisol I don't think that it really matters when it's done as long as it is taken between 8-9am for a relevant result. Being on the pill or HRT may give an elevated result. When testing for cortisol it is recommended being off the for 6 weeks before doing the test.

[McPammy]

I’ve had numerous cortisol 9am blood tests. I’ve not been advised about any avoidance if within a cycle. Although I’m post menopausal! As long as you get it done between 8-9am.