Invivo Urinary Microbiome Testing
Welcome to the hidden universe within your urinary tract – the urinary microbiome. While often overshadowed by discussions of gut and oral health, the urinary microbiome plays a significant role in maintaining urogenital health and overall well-being. Lets delve into the importance of the urinary microbiome, the consequences of imbalance, and who could benefit from testing.
Your urinary tract isn't just a sterile environment; it's home to a diverse community of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms known as the urinary microbiome. This dynamic ecosystem isn't just about preventing urinary tract infections; it plays a crucial role in urinary tract health, immune function, and even systemic health.
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One of the primary functions of the urinary microbiome is maintaining urogenital health. Certain bacteria help prevent the overgrowth of harmful pathogens, maintain the integrity of the urinary tract lining, and support immune surveillance. Moreover, the urinary microbiome contributes to the production and metabolism of certain compounds in the urine, influencing urinary pH and composition.
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Furthermore, emerging research suggests that the urinary microbiome may have implications beyond the urinary tract. It has been linked to conditions such as urinary incontinence, interstitial cystitis, and even systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders.
When the delicate balance of the urinary microbiome is disrupted, it can lead to dysbiosis – an imbalance in the urinary microbiome. Factors such as antibiotic use, hormonal changes, urinary tract infections, and underlying medical conditions can alter the composition and diversity of urinary microbes, predisposing individuals to various urinary tract issues.
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Dysbiosis in the urinary microbiome can manifest as urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary incontinence, urinary urgency, and pelvic pain. Moreover, imbalances in the urinary microbiome have been associated with chronic urinary tract conditions such as interstitial cystitis and recurrent UTIs.
Given the significant impact of the urinary microbiome on urogenital and overall health, testing its composition and function can provide valuable insights for personalised urological care. Individuals experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, or other urinary symptoms may benefit from urinary microbiome testing. Moreover, those with chronic urinary tract conditions, autoimmune diseases, or a history of antibiotic use could also gain valuable information from assessing their urinary microbiome. Additionally, individuals undergoing certain medical treatments that affect urinary health, such as chemotherapy or hormonal therapy, may benefit from monitoring their urinary microbiome status.
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Tailored to uncover the complexity of the female urinary microbiome, the Urinary EcologiX™ test examines 15 key commensal, pathobiont, and pathogenic bacteria that reside in the female urinary tract.
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Harnessing the power of quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), this comprehensive test sheds light on the microbial abundance in your urinary system. Collaborating with a trusted healthcare provider, the insights from this test offer guidance for making thoughtful, gradual adjustments to your lifestyle, nutrition, and self-care routines – all paving the way toward enhanced health and well-being.
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Accurate urine sample collection is essential for reliable microbiome analysis. The Urinary EcologiX™ test employs an easy-to-use, clean-catch, mid-stream urine collection device, ensuring an authentic representation of your urinary tract’s microbiota.
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Get curious and delve into the microbial contents of your urinary microbiome with the Urinary EcologiX™ microbiome test.
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*Please note: This test is suitable for individuals whose urinary bladder communicates with an anatomical vagina, including those assigned female at birth.
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Biomarkers tested:
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Lactobacillus crispatus
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Lactobacillus gasseri
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Lactobacillus iners
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Escherichia coli
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Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC)
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Proteus mirabilis
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Staphylococcus saprophyticus
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Citrobacter freundii
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Pseudomonas aeruginosa
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Actinotignum schaalii
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Aerococcus urinae
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Serratia marcescens
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Streptococcus agalactiae
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Klebsiella pneumoniae
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Enterococcus faecalis
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Learn more at Urinary EcologiX™ | Urinary Microbiome Test by Invivo (invivohealthcare.com)
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Price - £149
Sample type: Urine