Rhythm Plus™

The Rhythm Plus™ hormone test is a comprehensive salivary assessment of estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone that spans a full 28 days. Additionally, this hormone testing profile includes the Adrenocortex Stress Profile and the Comprehensive Melatonin Profile to reveal how the sex hormones are influenced by cortisol, DHEA, and melatonin. Hormonal balance is the key. Fluctuating levels of estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone play a major role in a woman's overall health. Rhythm Plus is a hormonal test indicated for both premenopausal and perimenopausal women not currently supplementing with hormones.

Hormone imbalances may be responsible for:

• Menstrual cycle irregularities
• Mood disorders
• Insomnia
• GI complaints
• Libido
• Fatigue

The Rhythm Plus provides a thorough analysis of estradiol and progesterone over a full 28 day cycle. Testosterone is measured once from the 28th day specimen. By utilizing 11 saliva samples for analysis, the relationship and balance of these essential hormones are analyzed more precisely through time. The levels of estradiol and progesterone, as well as the ratio between the two, are clearly graphed for easy reference and patient education.

Important Prep Prior To Testing: Your collection schedule is based on the first day of your menstrual cycle (the day menstrual blood flow begins). If you are not experiencing periods, you may start on any day. You may find it helpful to use the enclosed collection calendar to remind you
of collection dates.

Consider waking at 6am on last day of collection.

If you have difficulty producing enough saliva for the tube, press the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth against your teeth. Yawning can also generate saliva.

Transdermal (cream) and sublingual bio-identical hormones may produce artificially high levels in the saliva that do not correlate with blood levels. This increase from cream hormones may last for weeks to months after discontinuing use. If you are taking these substances – or have taken them within the last 12 months – please consult with your healthcare practitioner before taking this test.

The following drugs, herbs and dietary supplements may influence levels of hormones reported in this test:
ketoconazole, cimetidine (Tagamet), anastrozole (Arimidex), letrozole (Femara), exemestane (Aromasin), Chrysin, Apigenin,
Tribulus terrestris, clomiphene, antiepileptics, digoxin, oral steroids (e.g. Prednisone),
cortisone cream, and any steroid-based nasal sprays, inhalers, or eye drops. Let your
physician know about these and any other medications, herbs, and supplements that you have used in the past 3 months. Do not change use of supplements or medications unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.

Night Before Collection: Before you go to sleep on Collection Day, place your collection tube (with a
completed label) at your bedside, along with a glass of water and a low level light.

Do not turn on a bright light, it will cause your melatonin level to drop.

One Hour Prior To Collection: One hour prior to collection do not eat, brush or floss your teeth, use mouthwash, chew gum or use any tobacco products. You may drink ONLY water during this time.