Why an OB-GYN Won't Use DUTCH Tests

Why It Matters

Avoiding inappropriate DUTCH testing prevents misdiagnosis, curtails patient anxiety, and saves resources in perimenopausal care.

Key Takeaways

• DUTCH test unreliable for perimenopausal hormone assessment clinical.
• Hormone fluctuations in perimenopause are chaotic, not actionable.
• Direct-to-consumer hormone panels often mislead patients seeking answers.
• Adrenal function rarely declines solely from stress or age.
• Clinicians should reassure patients instead of ordering unnecessary tests.

Summary

In a recent clinic discussion, an OB‑GYN explains why the DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) panel is not appropriate for evaluating perimenopausal women.

She notes that hormone levels during perimenopause swing wildly, making single‑point measurements unreliable for guiding treatment. Consequently, routine hormone testing—whether serum or DUTCH—is discouraged in diagnostic or therapeutic decision‑making for this stage.

The physician also addresses a common misconception that adrenal glands “wear out” from stress or age, reassuring patients that adrenal function remains stable unless a specific pathology is present.

The takeaway for clinicians and patients alike is to prioritize symptom‑based management over costly direct‑to‑consumer panels, reducing unnecessary anxiety and health‑care spending.

Original Description

Dr. Loraine Baraki, OB-GYN, on the DUTCH test: not endorsed by any major endocrine society for perimenopause workup. Hormone levels in perimenopause are inherently variable. A single snapshot does not change management. Full episode linked in bio. #menopause #DUTCHtest #womenshealth #barbellmedicine