The BiomeFx kit is shipped to you. You register the kit, complete the required consent and intake information, and collect a small stool sample at home using the supplied container. Then you seal the sample and return it to the laboratory using the shipping materials in the box.

When your report is ready, we meet 1:1 to review the findings and build your personalized plan.

It depends on the type of test. The BiomeFx gut microbiome test uses whole-genome shotgun sequencing to report the microorganisms detected in your sample, their relative abundance, overall diversity, and their potential functions and pathways.

It does not diagnose IBS, SIBO, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, cancer, or another condition. It also does not prove that one microbial pattern is the cause of a symptom. The report is one source of information that we interpret alongside your symptoms and health history.

They are built for different questions.

BiomeFx uses broad shotgun metagenomic sequencing to examine the gut microbial ecosystem and its functional potential. GI-MAP is a targeted qPCR comprehensive stool analysis. It measures a selected panel of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites and may include digestive, inflammatory, and immune markers.

One is not automatically better than the other. If your main goal is a broad look at microbial composition and function for nutrition and lifestyle planning, BiomeFx may fit. If a medical provider is investigating pathogens, inflammation, digestion, or another clinical concern, they may choose GI-MAP or a different diagnostic test.

You collect a small amount of stool with the tool provided in the kit. Keep the sample free of urine and toilet water, follow the instructions for sealing and mixing it with the stabilizing liquid, and return it in the original box.

BiomeFx states that results are usually available two to three weeks after the laboratory receives the sample. Shipping time is additional.

They can identify microbial DNA in the sample when the kit is collected and processed correctly. But “does it work?” depends on what you expect the test to do.

A gut microbiome test can show microbial patterns. It cannot diagnose every cause of bloating, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, or food reactions. It is also a snapshot from one point in time, and an association on a report does not prove cause and effect.

The test is most useful when the results are interpreted carefully and connected with your real symptoms, diet, medications, and health history.

The test is most useful when the results are interpreted carefully and connected with your real symptoms, diet, medications, and health history.

Not automatically. It may be worth discussing if you have recurring vaginal discomfort, changes in discharge or odor, dryness, irritation, repeated yeast or bacterial imbalance, or questions about vaginal balance.

The vaginal test does not diagnose BV, a yeast infection, an STI, or another gynecologic condition. If you have current symptoms, pelvic pain, fever, unusual bleeding, pregnancy-related concerns, or possible STI exposure, contact a gynecologist or another qualified medical provider.

BiomeFx advises against collecting the gut sample while you are taking antibiotics and recommends waiting one to two weeks after the last dose. Do not postpone or stop a prescribed antibiotic just to take this test. Follow your prescriber’s instructions and ask when testing is appropriate.

BiomeFx does not generally require you to stop medications or supplements before collection, so probiotics can usually be continued. Tell me what you are taking because probiotics, medications, and recent treatments are part of the context we use to interpret your results.

The test and consultation are self-pay. Insurance coverage and HSA/FSA eligibility vary by plan, and reimbursement is not guaranteed. Contact your insurer or plan administrator before purchasing and ask what documentation they require.