{"id":57659,"date":"2021-03-11T10:44:10","date_gmt":"2021-03-11T09:44:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/frequently-asked-questions\/"},"modified":"2026-09-27T17:32:25","modified_gmt":"2026-09-27T15:32:25","slug":"frequently-asked-questions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/frequently-asked-questions\/","title":{"rendered":"Frequently Asked Questions"},"content":{"rendered":"
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Are the tests covered by my health insurance?” tab_id=”1616079571064-ef13a7a6-6938″][vc_column_text]\n
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No, the tests are not eligible for reimbursement. The costs of the tests are entirely at your own expense. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What are the costs of the tests?” tab_id=”1616079883334-b7d68fe0-7614″][vc_column_text]There are various test packages and modules; the price is indicated per package\/module.<\/p>\n

The included return envelopes are pre-stamped or go to a reply number, so you do not need to add postage yourself.<\/p>\n

For orders that we need to ship abroad, an additional \u20ac10 in shipping costs will be charged.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”From what age can a stool test be performed?” tab_id=”1616079908843-f83e5236-9e74″][vc_column_text]\n

Intestinal Flora<\/h3>\n

A baby has a distinct intestinal flora that appears within a few days. After a few weeks, the flora is developed. Initially, there are more Bifidobacteria than in adults, and often there is less flora variation. It certainly makes sense to determine the intestinal flora if the baby has intestinal complaints such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. <\/p>\n

Gluten Test<\/h3>\n

For gluten sensitivity testing, it is important that gluten-containing products have been consumed for 2 months prior.<\/p>\n

Other Tests<\/h3>\n

All other tests can be performed at any age.<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I send a test from Belgium?” tab_id=”1616080023161-92b4ea27-3ce4″][vc_column_text]Intestinal parasite, worm infection, histamine intolerance, lactose intolerance, and microbiome tests can be sent from Belgium using our standard medical return envelope addressed to our reply number.<\/p>\n

For reliable results from your examination, it is important that the fresh stool sample arrives at our laboratory in the Netherlands as quickly as possible.<\/p>\n

To do this, go to a post office near you and send the medical envelope to the stated PO box number via priority mail<\/strong>. The costs \u2013 as far as we know \u2013 are \u20ac8.70 per envelope and are at your own expense. <\/p>\n

If you wish to place an order and reside abroad, other than Belgium, please contact us regarding the return shipment. Our phone number is 058-2120025 (between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM).[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”How can I order a test myself?” tab_id=”1616080055273-0d7ef5bf-1939″][vc_column_text]\n

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Select the test package of your choice. Click the ‘add to cart’ button. If you want to order another test, you can go back to the tests to place the next desired package in the shopping cart. Once you have all desired tests in your shopping cart, click ‘proceed to checkout’. Then fill in all your details and check your order. Finally, choose your bank for payment, then proceed to ‘place order’. You will be redirected to IDEAL or Mistercash. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Which test should I order?” tab_id=”1616080086967-594dd979-b71e”][vc_column_text]\n

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Which test is most useful depends on your symptom pattern. Therefore, various test packages have been compiled. Each test package includes a description of symptoms. You can determine which test package best suits your complaints. You can also look under ‘help with test selection’. If you are truly unsure, you can contact a healthcare professional. At http:\/\/www.mglab.nl\/artsen.html, you will find healthcare professionals familiar with the tests offered on darmklachten.nl. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Which test can I do for a leaky gut?” tab_id=”1626879391695-399cdd82-5ffd”][vc_column_text]A leaky gut is a symptom, like abdominal pain, not a disease.<\/p>\n

It is the result of gluten intolerance, a food allergy, an infection with parasites or bacteria, or an inflammatory disease such as Crohn’s disease. There are no stool tests that detect intestinal leakage, but they can detect intestinal damage. The intestine will leak with any damage. Multiple tests are requested simultaneously; the PDS package is the most complete. It is recommended to seek advice from a doctor who thoroughly understands the subject.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Will I receive an invoice?” tab_id=”1616080123358-49904dab-7e79″][vc_column_text]\n

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Yes, when you place an order, you will receive the invoice along with the confirmation (via email). Your invoice can also be found in your account. You create an account during the ordering process. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I just finished an antibiotic course. How long should I wait before submitting a sample? ” tab_id=”1616080160229-5aad6095-d1e4″][vc_column_text]Three weeks after an antibiotic course, the intestinal flora has usually recovered. At that point, it is useful to assess whether there are still abnormalities.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I am using a probiotic; can I submit a sample?” tab_id=”1616080179813-afe2dc25-bf4e”][vc_column_text]\n

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For an intestinal flora analysis, it is recommended to stop taking probiotics 5 days beforehand.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I am using antacids; does this affect the test for Helicobacter pylori?” tab_id=”1616080206455-1abbf6a4-3cf1″][vc_column_text]\n

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Helicobacter pylori is not killed by antacids. Because in some cases antacids inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, it is recommended to stop taking them a few days before sample collection. If this causes too many symptoms, you can continue to use the antacids. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I am using a laxative. Does this affect the test? ” tab_id=”1616080250704-905d6d33-ad43″][vc_column_text]\n

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No, this does not affect the test. You do not need to stop taking the laxative. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I send the sample just before or during the weekend?” tab_id=”1616080282474-a72fb660-66c6″][vc_column_text]No, samples cannot be sent just before or during the weekend. Nor just before or during holidays. Therefore, collect and send your sample on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. Also, do not send a sample on Sunday; mail is collected on Sunday but not delivered on Monday. Store the sample in a cool place (refrigerator) during the day and mail it at the end of the day, just before the last collection. <\/p>\n

Exceptions: intestinal parasite, histamine, lactose, and microbiome samples can be collected and sent any day. The sample is in a fixation fluid and remains viable for a considerable time. <\/p>\n

See also the instruction leaflet in the sample collection envelope you receive at home.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”When do I collect a sample for parasites?” tab_id=”1616080311331-7d8c7e9e-9d70″][vc_column_text]\n

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Wait to collect both samples until a day when symptoms such as urgency or loose stools have increased. This may indicate increased excretion of intestinal parasites. You will collect a sample on two different days. <\/p>\n

See also the instruction leaflet in the sample collection envelope you receive at home.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”How much sample should be in the tube?” tab_id=”1616080339463-0dca8bb1-1110″][vc_column_text]For the fresh sample only, 12 ml of stool is needed. The label clearly indicates how full the tube should be. <\/p>\n

For the other tests, only a small amount of stool is needed.<\/p>\n

The lactose intolerance test is a buccal swab test.<\/p>\n

All sample collection envelopes contain clear instructions.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”The included collection system is torn. Can I collect the stool in another way? ” tab_id=”1616080364731-a47a5038-e151″][vc_column_text]\n

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Yes, you can, for example, use a disposable paper or plastic plate with some toilet paper on it.<\/p>\n

It is important that the sample is collected dry and does not come into contact with chemical agents.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I filled the tube above the indicated line on the label; is that a problem?” tab_id=”1616080410488-b9bee40d-ac18″][vc_column_text]If the tube is too full, this can cause problems during shipping or when opening it at the laboratory. Please adhere to the indicated line on the label. You can use the scoop attached to the cap of the tube to remove some of the stool until it is filled to the line. Afterward, you can package the sample according to the provided instructions.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I submit a sample if my stool is very loose?” tab_id=”1616080451248-3362923f-c328″][vc_column_text]Yes, you can submit this sample for testing.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I collect a sample during my menstruation?” tab_id=”1616080485051-53ba976f-8ede”][vc_column_text]Yes, you can collect a sample during your menstruation. Ensure that the sample comes into as little contact with blood as possible.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I forgot to send the request form with the sample; what now?” tab_id=”1616080584147-bfb21431-935a”][vc_column_text]Samples received without a request form will not be processed (immediately). If, in addition to the request form, your details are also missing from the tube, the sample will be discarded. Please contact the laboratory by phone for a new sample collection kit at 058-2120025. If you did put your details on the tube, you can still send the request form by mail. Note: indicate on the form that you have already submitted the sample. Mailing address: Postbus 1528, 8901 BV Leeuwarden.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I forgot to send the sample; what now?” tab_id=”1616080640802-fd58d635-9564″][vc_column_text]For Intestinal Parasites, Histamine, Lactose Intolerance, and Microbiome tests, it does not matter if you did not send the sample immediately. The sample is in fixation fluid and remains viable for a considerable time. You can still send it.
\nIf it is a fresh sample (empty tube), you can still send the sample the next day, provided it is not just before the weekend. If the sample has been stored for more than two days, or if it is just before or during the weekend, you can no longer submit the sample and will need a new tube. You can request one via email or phone: info@darmklachten.nl or 058-2120025.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I forgot to write my name and date of birth on the tube label; what now?” tab_id=”1616080687035-1a5427c2-5975″][vc_column_text]If you have fully completed the request form and there is no chance that tubes have been swapped with family members, you do not need to take any action. You can simply send the sample. If there is a chance that tubes from family members have been swapped, please contact us at info@darmklachten.nl or 058-32120025. We will then send you a new collection kit or kits.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”When will I receive the results?” tab_id=”1616080715312-0f975e61-4bb2″][vc_column_text]The laboratory aims to finalize and post the results online within seven to ten business days.<\/p>\n

Except for the microbiome test, which takes approximately four weeks for the report to be ready.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”How will I receive the results?” tab_id=”1616080742971-37d60dc0-3330″][vc_column_text]You will receive the results online, in ‘My account’. The result is a PDF file, so you will not receive a physical copy by mail. The results are stored digitally in a secure database at the performing laboratory.
\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”I don’t understand the results or have questions about my treatment; who can I speak to about this?” tab_id=”1616080771153-9b50fb23-e49c”][vc_column_text]Healthcare Professionals
\nThere are healthcare professionals throughout the Netherlands who are familiar with the tests we offer.
\nYou can also schedule a consultation with one of these healthcare professionals.
\nYou can find their details on the MGlab&Advies website under the ‘HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS’ section.
\nwww.mglab.nl.<\/p>\n

The laboratory staff are not medically trained. You cannot contact them for additional advice regarding your results. <\/p>\n

Please note: If a stomach ulcer bacterium or intestinal parasites are found, the results must always be discussed with your general practitioner.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”If I test positive for parasites, should my partner\/family be tested?” tab_id=”1616080798554-89382589-4f88″][vc_column_text]Yes, that is necessary, even if your partner has no symptoms. If your partner is infected and not treated, you could become reinfected. The same applies to your children and\/or housemates.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”How do I know if the intestinal parasites are gone after a course of treatment?” tab_id=”1616080826054-a27157d3-54f4″][vc_column_text]You reorder a test via our website. The follow-up check should take place approximately seven days after the end of the treatment.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Should I also have my pets tested if I have a parasitic infection?” tab_id=”1616080849255-f067d2de-635d”][vc_column_text]Dientamoeba fragilis does not occur in pets, but it does in pigs. Pig farmers can become infected with this parasite.
\nGiardia and Cryptosporidium can occur in cats and dogs. These may be different types of parasites, as transmission via pets has not been proven.
\nBlastocystis can occur in dogs, as well as in sheep and pigs. It is highly unlikely that these variants are contagious to humans. <\/p>\n

Nevertheless, pets can be tested for parasites. Our laboratory does not test pets; please contact a veterinarian. If a positive finding occurs, it does not necessarily mean the infection originated from the pet. As a precautionary measure, it is advised to wash hands thoroughly after contact with animal feces or manure.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Are the tests covered by my health insurance?” tab_id=”1616079571064-ef13a7a6-6938″][vc_column_text] No, the tests are not eligible for reimbursement. The costs of the tests are entirely at your own expense. [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What are the costs of the tests?” tab_id=”1616079883334-b7d68fe0-7614″][vc_column_text]There…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2429,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-57659","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","entry","no-media"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/57659","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2429"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=57659"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/57659\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":57661,"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/57659\/revisions\/57661"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=57659"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}