Review the test before ordering
Read the product description and sample report so you understand what the test examines, what the report includes, and what it cannot tell you.
At-home stool sample testing
How gut microbiome testing works
A gut microbiome test uses a stool sample collected at home to examine the types and relative amounts of bacteria identified in the sample.
After the laboratory receives an acceptable sample, results are generally prepared within 15–20 working days. The report provides educational information about the bacterial composition of the sample and includes personalized dietary guidance based on the reported findings.
This test does not diagnose a digestive condition or replace medical evaluation. New, severe, or persistent symptoms should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
Turnaround starts at the laboratory
The 15–20 working-day estimate begins after an acceptable stool sample is received, not when the order is placed.
Use the report for education, not diagnosis.
Microbiome findings can help you review bacterial patterns and prepare questions about diet or gut health, but they should not be used on their own to diagnose, prevent, or treat disease.
Quick overview
What to expect from the process
| Stage | What happens | What to remember |
|---|---|---|
| Ordering | You choose the Gut Microbiome Test and provide complete delivery and contact information. | Review the test purpose, price, shipping information, and sample report before ordering. |
| Kit delivery | The at-home collection kit is prepared and shipped to the delivery address entered with the order. | Check the package when it arrives and contact support before collection if anything is damaged or missing. |
| Sample collection | You collect a small stool sample using the materials and instructions supplied with the kit. | Follow the kit instructions exactly and complete any required labels or forms. |
| Sample return | You package the sample and send it to the return address specified in the kit. | Return postage is not necessarily prepaid. Follow the instructions for your order and keep tracking details when available. |
| Laboratory analysis | The laboratory analyzes the bacterial composition of an acceptable stool sample. | The estimated 15–20 working-day turnaround begins after the sample reaches the laboratory. |
| Report | You receive a report describing the bacteria identified and their relative abundance, together with educational dietary guidance. | Interpret the findings within the report's stated limitations and involve a clinician when medical decisions are needed. |
From order to report
The gut microbiome testing process
Enter accurate delivery details
Provide a complete shipping address, telephone number, and email address. Incorrect information can delay kit delivery.
Check the kit when it arrives
Confirm that the collection materials and instructions appear complete and undamaged before collecting the sample.
Collect the stool sample
Use the supplied collection materials and follow the instructions carefully. Do not substitute another container or collection method.
Package and return the sample
Use the packaging and return address specified in the kit. When you use tracked shipping, retain the tracking number until delivery is confirmed.
Receive and review the report
Once analysis is complete, review the bacterial composition findings, dietary guidance, and limitations provided in the report.
Before collecting your sample
Preparation is mostly about following the kit
The collection materials and instructions supplied with your order are specific to the test. Read them before beginning and follow them instead of relying on general stool-sample advice found elsewhere.
1
Choose a practical collection time
Collect the sample when you can complete the instructions, label the materials, and prepare the return package without rushing.
2
Avoid contamination
Use only the supplied materials and follow the collection directions so the submitted sample is suitable for laboratory processing.
3
Follow the stated return method
Return requirements can vary. Use the address, packaging, storage, and timing directions included with your kit.
4
Contact support when instructions are unclear
Ask before collecting or mailing the sample if the kit is incomplete, damaged, or different from what you expected.
Understanding the report
What the results can—and cannot—tell you
The report describes the bacterial composition found in the submitted stool sample. It can help you explore patterns related to gut-microbiome diversity and review educational dietary suggestions.
A stool sample reflects the sample collected at one point in time. Results can be influenced by biological and lifestyle factors, and the science of translating microbiome patterns into individual clinical decisions is still developing.
1
It is not a diagnosis
The test does not confirm or rule out IBS, IBD, infection, food intolerance, cancer, or another digestive condition.
2
Recommendations are educational
Dietary guidance in the report should be considered alongside allergies, medical conditions, medications, nutritional needs, and professional advice.
3
Repeat testing should have a clear goal
A follow-up test may help compare two time points, but normal variation means that changes should be interpreted carefully rather than treated as proof of improvement or decline.
Practical answers
Gut microbiome testing FAQs
What type of sample is required?
The Gut Microbiome Test uses a stool sample collected at home with the materials supplied in the kit.
How long do results take?
Results are generally available within 15–20 working days after an acceptable stool sample is received at the laboratory. Shipping time is not part of this laboratory turnaround estimate.
Does the test diagnose a digestive condition?
No. The report provides educational information about the microbiome in the submitted sample. It is not a diagnostic test for IBS, IBD, infection, food intolerance, or another medical condition.
Is return shipping included?
Do not assume that return postage is prepaid. Follow the shipping instructions supplied with your specific kit and review the Shipping and Returns page before ordering.
What if the sample cannot be analyzed?
The team will explain whether recollection is needed. Replacement-kit, shipping, or retesting charges may apply when the problem is related to collection, labeling, sample quality, storage, or return handling.
What information appears in the report?
The report describes the types and relative amounts of bacteria identified in the sample and provides educational dietary recommendations based on the reported profile.
Should I change my diet immediately?
Review the recommendations in context. Speak with a qualified clinician or registered dietitian before making major dietary changes, especially when you have allergies, a diagnosed condition, take medication, or have restrictive nutritional needs.
Can I order a follow-up test?
A follow-up Gut Microbiome Test may be available. Decide in advance what you want to compare and remember that microbiome profiles can naturally vary over time.
Where can I see an example report?
Open the dedicated microbiome sample report page to review the report structure before ordering.
Related information
Helpful pages before you order
Gut Microbiome Test
Review the test purpose, report focus, and current ordering information.
Microbiome Sample Report
See how the bacterial findings and educational recommendations are organized.
Shipping and Sample Returns
Review kit delivery, sample-return instructions, tracking, and turnaround timing.
Pricing
Check current test pricing and any shipping or service charges that may apply.
Privacy
Learn how order information, samples, and reports are handled during the testing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find more answers about ordering, collection, laboratory processing, and reports.
Choose the next step
Review the test and report before ordering
Start with the Gut Microbiome Test page, then open the sample report to decide whether the collection process and report format match what you want to learn.
Contact the team before collecting your sample if the kit arrives damaged, incomplete, or unclear.
