An overview of the procedure
AN OVERVIEW OF THE PROCEDURE
Whichever test you order from Persometrics, you receive saliva sampling tubes delivered to your door, together with a unique anonymous code. We recommend taking note of this code for future reference. The samples are obtained at specified times in the comfort of your own home or at any location of your choosing. Once you have performed the sampling, use the supplied envelope to return the samples to the lab, and receive your results and detailed report. You will receive your report within 7-10 working days (counting from the day the lab has received your samples). As soon as your results are sent to you, your data will be anonymised within Persometrics’s system, which means that we will have no way of connecting any sensitive information to personal details. However, should you require your results or report again in the future for whatever reason, you can request access to your anonymised data using your unique anonymous code.
What's in the box?
When you order a home test kit from Persometrics, you will receive sampling vials, a packing slip including your anonymous code and an envelope for returning the samples. Note that all instructions are provided through our online platform, to which you will be given access once you receive your testkit.
How do I provide the samples?
Persometrics uses 'passive drool' to collect the saliva, as illustrated in the picture opposite. To obtain samples, simply spit into a tube through a straw. Full, easy-to-follow instructions are given with the kit (accessible online). There is no need to go to a post office; the mailer can go in a standard public mailbox (2cm wide). Some research shows cortisol levels in saliva can remain stable for up to two weeks at room temperature but we recommend posting the samples the day after the saliva collection date. Therefore, avoid sampling right before an 'extended weekend' (e.g., with a bank holiday Monday), and keep your sample in the fridge until it is ready to be shipped.
What's included in the report?
The report, and how extensive it is, depends on the home test kit. Regardless of which test you ordered, you will receive your raw output scores as delivered by the laboratory, an overview of the scores in relation to your population norms, and how this is related to health. For products from the Hormone Testing for Sports and Stress Profiling ranges, indexes are calculated and a report is provided with more in-depth analysis with scientific references for those who wish to learn more about how the indexes are obtained and where our information is taken from. Finally, these reports include a personalised section with information on what is likely to be helpful for people with your adrenal profile. This information arises from science-based research and is meant as a tool for personal entertainment, education, and empowerment.
What are the restrictions I should know about?
-Saliva samples for the stress reports should be taken on a work-day and, the postal service must be active the day after the sampling. Try to choose a day that is typical for you in terms of chores, responsibilities and leisure.
-Do not consume alcohol within the last 24 hours before collecting saliva
-Do not brush your teeth, smoke, eat or drink (apart from water) in the hour preceding any saliva collection.
-Cortisol can be influenced by drugs such as prednisone, dexamethasone and other steroids administered orally or intravenously. If you are uncertain about a particular drug treatment, please contact us prior to ordering.
-If you have a gum disease this can also have an impact on the hormone analysis. Never collect saliva if you are bleeding from the gums, or if you have residue from food in your mouth, since materials such as blood may influence reliability of the analysis. If you can see any discolouring in your saliva samples please discard all collection tubes and contact Persometrics for new ones.