What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained weight gain, muscle weakness, fatigue, or a rounded face and stretch marks that could point to a stress hormone problem. It measures both free and total cortisol, which helps identify conditions like Cushing's syndrome where cortisol is too high. It's also useful if you have symptoms of low cortisol, such as extreme tiredness or dizziness.

What's included in this test?

This test measures both free cortisol (the active form circulating in your blood) and total cortisol, giving a fuller picture of your stress hormone activity than a single measurement alone. Looking at both forms matters because factors like protein binding can make total cortisol look normal while free cortisol is actually elevated or low, which is especially important for catching conditions like Cushing's syndrome.

What happens after I get my results?

Your cortisol results will show up in your account with the normal range clearly explained so you know exactly where you stand. If your levels are outside the normal range, simple next steps might include adjusting sleep habits, reducing stress, or retesting in a few weeks to confirm the pattern; if a value looks dangerously high or low, seek medical care right away. You can download the full lab report from your account anytime, and the trends feature lets you track your cortisol levels over time to see how they change.

How can I naturally support healthy cortisol levels?

Getting consistent, quality sleep is one of the best ways to keep cortisol in a healthy rhythm throughout the day. Regular moderate exercise, mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing, and cutting back on caffeine and added sugar can also help keep stress hormone levels balanced. Eating regular meals and avoiding chronic overexertion can prevent unnecessary cortisol spikes as well.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. Once ready, you'll be able to view them directly in your online account, along with an explanation of what each value means.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with symptoms like unexplained weight gain, high blood pressure, thinning skin, or persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest should consider this test. It's also a good option for people who have been told they might have Cushing's syndrome or adrenal problems and want a clear, private way to check their cortisol levels.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include unexplained weight gain (especially around the midsection and face), muscle weakness, easy bruising, purple stretch marks, high blood pressure, and mood changes like anxiety or irritability. On the flip side, very low cortisol can cause extreme fatigue, low blood pressure, and dizziness when standing up. If you notice a combination of these symptoms, this test can help clarify what's going on.

What does high cortisol mean?

High cortisol can point to conditions like Cushing's syndrome, chronic stress, or certain medication effects, and it's often linked to weight gain, high blood pressure, and trouble sleeping. Simple steps like improving sleep, managing stress, and cutting back on stimulants can help, but persistently high levels should be retested and taken seriously since they can affect your heart and metabolism over time.

What does low cortisol mean?

Low cortisol can mean your adrenal glands aren't producing enough of this important hormone, which may cause fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and dizziness. This can sometimes signal a condition like Addison's disease. If your levels come back low, especially alongside these symptoms, it's important to seek medical care promptly since cortisol plays a critical role in how your body handles stress.

How often should I retest?

If your first result is borderline or you're actively working on lifestyle changes like better sleep or stress management, retesting every 4-8 weeks can help you track progress. If your levels are normal and you feel well, an annual check is generally enough unless new symptoms appear.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Free & Total Cortisol Test - Stress Hormone Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]