Cortisol Lab Test – At-Home Sampling
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Test at a glance
Collect your sample at home and send it to the laboratory for analysis.
- Test type
- Lab tests at home
- Sample
- Capillary blood sample
- Results within
- Approx. 4 days from sample collection
- Reliability
- Laboratory analysis
- Results
- Digital report with explanations
- Analysed by an accredited laboratory (ISO 15189)
- A kit with everything you need is sent to your home
How it works
Measure cortisol using a liquid capillary blood sample taken at home. Cortisol is produced in the adrenal glands, fluctuates significantly throughout the day, and plays a role in processes such as metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and the body's stress response.
The test at a glance
- Sample collection entirely at home
- Liquid capillary blood from the fingertip
- Quantitative laboratory result
- Medical laboratory accredited according to ISO 15189
- Quality assurance according to Rili-BÄK
- Digital results in your personal health portal
What does the test measure?
Cortisol
Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Levels are typically higher in the morning and lower later in the day, making the timing of the sample collection important.
Common symptoms and when the test may be relevant
The test may be relevant for targeted hormone monitoring or when cortisol testing has been recommended as part of a medical assessment. A single morning measurement provides limited information and does not diagnose so-called "adrenal fatigue."
The following symptoms may occur with hormonal imbalances but are non-specific and can have many other causes:
- pronounced or prolonged fatigue
- muscle weakness
- unexplained weight change
- changes in blood pressure
- sleep difficulties
A single laboratory value cannot explain symptoms or establish a diagnosis on its own.
Who is this test for?
- For those who want to measure morning cortisol levels.
- For those who want to monitor a previous cortisol level.
- For those who have been advised to check their cortisol levels.
- For those who prefer home sampling.
How the home lab test works
- Order the test. You receive the sampling kit, instructions, and return materials.
- Prepare for sampling. Read the instructions and warm your hands to facilitate blood flow.
- Take the sample. Prick your fingertip and collect liquid capillary blood in the provided test tube.
- Send the sample. Label, seal, and pack the sample according to the instructions.
- Laboratory analysis. The sample is analyzed using a quality-assured laboratory method.
- View the result. The laboratory result is displayed digitally in your personal health portal.
Before sample collection
Collect the sample in the morning, preferably between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Always follow the instructions included in the sample collection kit.
Laboratory and quality
The sample is analyzed at a medical laboratory accredited according to ISO 15189. The laboratory's quality assurance also complies with Rili-BÄK, the German medical association's guideline for quality assurance in laboratory medical testing.
- Sample material: liquid capillary blood
- Collection site: at home
- Result: digital laboratory report
- Turnaround time: transport time and the scope of the analysis affect the total time
Results and reference values
The result is displayed using the laboratory's unit of measurement and the applicable reference ranges. Hormone levels can be influenced by factors such as time of day, age, gender, menstrual cycle, medications, and individual circumstances. Always rely on the information provided in your specific test result.
Do you want a broader hormone profile?
Adrenal Gland Lab Test measures both cortisol and DHEA-S.
Important information about the result
The test provides information about the analyzed marker but does not provide a diagnosis and does not replace medical assessment or treatment. Contact a healthcare professional in the event of clear or persistent symptoms, abnormal results, or concerns.
Frequently asked questions about cortisol
What is cortisol?
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a role in, among other things, the body's stress response and metabolism.
When should cortisol be tested?
This test is recommended in the morning, preferably between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM.
Why does the time of day matter?
Cortisol follows a distinct circadian rhythm, and levels are normally highest in the morning.
Can stress affect cortisol?
Yes, both physical and psychological stress can affect cortisol levels.
Does the test diagnose adrenal fatigue?
No. Adrenal fatigue is not an established medical diagnosis, and a single cortisol value cannot be used in that way.
How is the result displayed?
The result is displayed digitally, including the laboratory's unit and reference range.
What is analysed
- Cortisol
Frequently asked questions
What does the cortisol test measure?
The test measures cortisol.
How is the sample taken?
You prick your finger and collect a capillary blood sample in the sample tube provided. Follow the sampling instructions carefully.
Do I need to prepare?
- Take the sample in the morning, preferably between 07:00 and 09:00.
Always follow the instructions that come with the sampling kit.
How is the sample sent?
Label and pack the sample, then send it to the laboratory as instructed.
When and how will I get my results?
When the laboratory analysis is complete, you receive your results digitally. Transport time and the scope of the analysis affect the total turnaround time.
Can the test provide a diagnosis?
No. The test provides laboratory values that need to be assessed together with symptoms, medical history and other circumstances.
Home testing made simple
Quicktest brings together self-tests and home sampling tests in one place. Clear instructions, discreet delivery and easy-to-understand results help you take the next step with confidence.
