Blog — menstrual cycle

  As women, our bodies undergo various phases and transitions throughout our lives, each presenting challenges and changes. One such significant stage is perimenopause, the precursor to menopause. While menopause typically occurs around the age of 51, the perimenopausal journey often begins around the age of 46. This transitional period can bring about various physical and emotional changes, paving the way for the eventual cessation of menstrual cycles. In this blog, we'll delve into the intricacies of perimenopause, exploring the symptoms, challenges, and ways to navigate this natural phase with grace and understanding. Understanding Perimenopause: Perimenopause, often referred to as...

In the complex interplay of hormones shaping a woman's body, the menstrual cycle stands as a dynamic symphony orchestrated by fluctuations in estradiol, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH). Understanding these hormonal rhythms is pivotal, especially for those grappling with irregular cycles, fertility challenges, or cyclic symptoms like PMS and headaches. Fortunately, advancements in testing methodologies have ushered in a game-changer: dried urine testing. Decoding the Menstrual Cycle Estradiol and progesterone, the guardians of reproductive function, dance through a woman's cycle, guiding pivotal events. The follicular phase witnesses estradiol's rise, preparing the uterine lining and nurturing ovarian follicles. This phase peaks...

  The human body operates like a complex orchestra, with hormones orchestrating various bodily functions. Among the myriad of hormones, those governing a woman's menstrual cycle play a pivotal role in reproduction and overall health. Emerging evidence suggests that imbalances in these reproductive hormones could be the underlying cause of several chronic health issues. Enter menstrual cycle mapping—a month-long assessment that unveils crucial insights into a woman's key reproductive hormones. Unraveling Hormonal Imbalances: A Deeper Look Imbalances in menstrual hormones can manifest as various conditions, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and fertility challenges. These imbalances often...

Hormones are like the body's messengers, orchestrating various physiological processes. While they play essential roles in growth, metabolism, and reproduction, they also have a profound impact on your mood and emotions. The delicate balance of hormones can sway your emotional state, leading to mood swings, irritability, or even mood disorders. In this blog, we'll explore the intricate relationship between hormones and mood changes. 1. The Key Mood-Modulating Hormones Several hormones have a direct influence on your mood:a. Serotonin: Often referred to as the "feel-good" hormone, serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood. Low serotonin levels are associated with depression,...

By Dr. Alison McAllister, ZRT Laboratory This article tackles some frequent questions providers might have regarding the purpose of the testing and who the ideal patient is. TESTING SPECIFICS Why urine testing instead of saliva? Saliva testing is what ZRT was founded on, and we have tested over 1.8 million individuals at this point. We are celebrating 20 years of hormone testing this year! Hurray! We love saliva testing. But, what we don’t love is having you collect every other day for 15 samples. Urine testing has the benefit of a super easy collection – wake up and pee on the strip!...