{"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":"2026-10-16T15:19:45","modified_gmt":"2026-10-16T13:19:45","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_column_text]\n

Frequently asked questions<\/h1>\n

\nDo you have a question about our laboratory tests, ordering a test kit, collecting a sample or receiving your results?
\nBelow you will find answers to the questions we receive most often.\n<\/p>\n

\n

\nCan\u2019t find your question?<\/strong>
\nFor practical questions about an order, test kit, shipping or results, you can always contact Darmklachten.nl.
\nIf you have a personal or more substantive question about your symptoms or test results, you can schedule a telephone consultation with a healthcare professional.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Ordering, costs and test selection<\/h2>\n

\nHere you will find answers to practical questions about ordering a test, costs, payment and choosing a test.\n<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[vc_tta_accordion style=”modern” shape=”rounded” color=”white” spacing=”4″ gap=”3″ c_icon=”chevron” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Are the tests covered by my health insurance?” tab_id=”1616079571064-ef13a7a6-6938″]\n[vc_column_text]\nNo. The tests are not eligible for reimbursement by your health insurer. The full cost of the test is at your own expense.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”What are the costs of the tests?” tab_id=”1616079883334-b7d68fe0-7614″]\n[vc_column_text]\nCosts vary by test package or examination. The current price is shown on the page for each test.<\/p>\n

Where applicable, the return materials supplied are prepaid or have a reply-paid number. You therefore do not need to add postage yourself.<\/p>\n

Additional shipping costs may apply when sending from or to another country.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”How can I order a test myself?” tab_id=”1616080055273-0d7ef5bf-1939″]\n[vc_column_text]\nSelect the test you want and click ‘Add to basket’<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

If you would like to order several tests, you can then add other tests to your basket.<\/p>\n

When your order is complete, go to the basket and select ‘Proceed to checkout’<\/strong>. Enter your details, check your order and complete payment using one of the available payment methods.<\/p>\n

After placing your order, you will receive a confirmation by email.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Which test should I order?” tab_id=”1616080086967-594dd979-b71e”]\n[vc_column_text]\nWhich test is most suitable depends on your symptoms and exactly what you want to have tested.<\/p>\n

For each test package, you will find information about the purpose of the test and the symptoms for which it may be relevant.<\/p>\n

You can also view our page Help choosing a test<\/strong><\/a> .<\/p>\n

If you would like personal, substantive advice about choosing a test, you can schedule a telephone consultation with a healthcare professional through Darmklachten.nl.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Which test can I do for a leaky gut?” tab_id=”1626879391695-399cdd82-5ffd”]\n[vc_column_text]\nThe term ‘leaky gut’ is used in relation to increased permeability of the intestinal wall and can have several possible causes.<\/p>\n

There is no single stool test that can directly establish a ‘leaky gut’. Depending on your symptoms, tests for inflammation, gut flora, infections or other factors may be relevant.<\/p>\n

If you are unsure which test is appropriate in your situation, we recommend discussing this with a doctor or another qualified healthcare professional.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Will I receive an invoice?” tab_id=”1616080123358-49904dab-7e79″]\n[vc_column_text]\nYes. When you place an order, you will receive an invoice by email together with the confirmation.<\/p>\n

Your invoice can also be found in your account.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[\/vc_tta_accordion]\n[vc_empty_space height=”35px”]\n[vc_column_text]\n

Age, preparation and medication<\/h2>\n

\nSome tests require certain preparation. Below you will find general information. Always also follow the instructions supplied with your specific test.\n<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[vc_tta_accordion style=”modern” shape=”rounded” color=”white” spacing=”4″ gap=”3″ c_icon=”chevron” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”]\n[vc_tta_section title=”From what age can a stool test be performed?” tab_id=”1616079908843-f83e5236-9e74″]\n[vc_column_text]\n

Gut flora<\/strong><\/p>\n

Gut flora testing can also be carried out in babies and young children. A baby\u2019s gut flora differs from that of an adult and develops during the early stages of life.<\/p>\n

Gluten test<\/strong><\/p>\n

For testing gluten sensitivity, it is important that gluten-containing products have been consumed during the period before the test. Allow for approximately two months.<\/p>\n

Other tests<\/strong><\/p>\n

Many other tests can be carried out at different ages. If in doubt, you can contact us beforehand.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I recently had a course of antibiotics. How long should I wait?” tab_id=”1616080160229-5aad6095-d1e4″]\n[vc_column_text]\nFor gut flora testing, it is generally recommended to wait approximately three weeks after a course of antibiotics before sending in a sample.<\/p>\n

This gives the gut flora some time to recover after antibiotic use.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I am using a probiotic; can I submit a sample?” tab_id=”1616080179813-afe2dc25-bf4e”]\n[vc_column_text]\nFor a gut flora analysis, it is recommended to stop using probiotics approximately five days before collecting the sample.<\/p>\n

Always follow the instructions supplied specifically with your test.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I use acid-suppressing medication. Does this affect a Helicobacter pylori test?” tab_id=”1616080206455-1abbf6a4-3cf1″]\n[vc_column_text]\nAcid-suppressing medication can affect the amount of Helicobacter pylori that can be detected.<\/p>\n

Therefore, follow the preparation instructions supplied with your test.<\/p>\n

Do not stop prescribed medication on your own.<\/strong> If temporarily stopping could cause symptoms, or if you are unsure, discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist first.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I am using a laxative. Does this affect the test? ” tab_id=”1616080250704-905d6d33-ad43″]\n[vc_column_text]\nAccording to the standard instructions, you do not need to stop using a laxative for these tests.<\/p>\n

If different instructions have been supplied with your specific test, always follow the instructions for that test.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Can I collect a sample during my menstruation?” tab_id=”1616080485051-53ba976f-8ede”]\n[vc_column_text]\nYes, that is possible.<\/p>\n

Try to make sure that the stool sample comes into contact with as little blood as possible.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[\/vc_tta_accordion]\n[vc_empty_space height=”35px”]\n[vc_column_text]\n

Collecting and shipping your sample<\/h2>\n

\nProper collection and shipping are important for reliable processing of your test. Therefore, always also check the instruction leaflet supplied with your test kit.\n<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[vc_tta_accordion style=”modern” shape=”rounded” color=”white” spacing=”4″ gap=”3″ c_icon=”chevron” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Can I send a test from Belgium?” tab_id=”1616080023161-92b4ea27-3ce4″]\n[vc_column_text]\nVarious tests, including tests for intestinal parasites, worm infections, histamine intolerance, lactose intolerance and the microbiome, can be returned from Belgium.<\/p>\n

For tests that require a fresh stool sample, it is important that the sample reaches its destination as quickly as possible.<\/p>\n

Therefore, when sending such shipments from Belgium, preferably use priority shipping<\/strong>. The cost of this international return shipment is at your own expense.<\/p>\n

Do you live outside the Netherlands or Belgium? Contact us before sending the sample for the correct return instructions.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Can I send the sample just before or during the weekend?” tab_id=”1616080282474-a72fb660-66c6″]\n[vc_column_text]\nIt is better not to send fresh samples just before or during the weekend. The same applies to public holidays.<\/p>\n

Therefore, preferably collect and send a fresh sample on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Store the sample according to the supplied instructions until you send it.<\/p>\n

For some tests, including certain parasite, histamine, lactose and microbiome tests, material with a stabilising or fixing liquid is used. Different shipping instructions may apply to these.<\/p>\n

Therefore, always check the instruction leaflet in your test kit.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”When do I collect a sample for parasites?” tab_id=”1616080311331-7d8c7e9e-9d70″]\n[vc_column_text]\nIf the test requires several samples on different days, follow the instructions supplied with the test kit.<\/p>\n

In some cases, you may be advised to collect a sample at a time when symptoms such as urgency or abnormal stools are clearly present.<\/p>\n

Always consult the instruction leaflet for your test for the exact collection procedure.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”How much sample should be in the tube?” tab_id=”1616080339463-0dca8bb1-1110″]\n[vc_column_text]\nThe amount required varies by test.<\/p>\n

For a fresh stool sample, the label on the tube indicates how far it should be filled.<\/p>\n

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

The lactose intolerance test is performed using a cheek swab and therefore does not use a stool sample.<\/p>\n

Clear collection instructions are supplied with every test kit.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”The included collection system is torn. Can I collect the stool in another way? ” tab_id=”1616080364731-a47a5038-e151″]\n[vc_column_text]\nYes. For example, you can use a clean disposable paper or plastic plate and, if desired, place some clean toilet paper on it.<\/p>\n

The most important thing is that the sample is collected dry and clean<\/strong> and does not come into contact with toilet water, cleaning products or other chemicals.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I filled the tube above the indicated line on the label; is that a problem?” tab_id=”1616080410488-b9bee40d-ac18″]\n[vc_column_text]\nIf the tube is too full, this can cause problems during shipping or processing.<\/p>\n

Therefore, keep to the fill line on the label.<\/p>\n

If you have put too much material in the tube, carefully remove some using the scoop attached to the cap until the material reaches approximately the indicated line.<\/p>\n

Then package the sample according to the supplied instructions.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Can I submit a sample if my stool is very loose?” tab_id=”1616080451248-3362923f-c328″]\n[vc_column_text]\nYes. Loose stool can also be submitted for testing.<\/p>\n

Follow the instructions supplied with your test kit regarding the amount and method of collection.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I forgot to send the request form with the sample; what now?” tab_id=”1616080584147-bfb21431-935a”]\n[vc_column_text]\nA sample without a fully completed request form may not be processed immediately.<\/p>\n

Are your name and other identifying details correctly written on the tube? Contact us as soon as possible so that we can tell you what to do.<\/p>\n

If your details are also missing from the sample, always contact us before taking any further steps.<\/p>\n

Telephone:<\/strong> 058 2120025<\/a>
\nEmail:<\/strong> info@darmklachten.nl<\/a>
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I forgot to send the sample; what now?” tab_id=”1616080640802-fd58d635-9564″]\n[vc_column_text]\nWhat you should do depends on the type of test.<\/p>\n

For certain tests, the sample is stored in a fixing or stabilising liquid. These samples remain suitable for shipping for longer.<\/p>\n

For a fresh sample<\/strong> the storage time is more limited. If the sample has been stored for longer, or if shipping would take place just before the weekend, contact us first.<\/p>\n

If necessary, we can provide information about requesting new sampling materials.<\/p>\n

Email:<\/strong> info@darmklachten.nl<\/a>
\nTelephone:<\/strong> 058 2120025<\/a>
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[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″]\n[vc_column_text]\nHave you completed the request form in full, and is there no possibility of confusion between different samples? If in doubt, always contact us before sending the sample.<\/p>\n

If several people in the same household are carrying out tests at the same time and there is a possibility that tubes have been mixed up, be sure to contact us.<\/p>\n

Email:<\/strong> info@darmklachten.nl<\/a>
\nTelephone:<\/strong> 058 2120025<\/a>
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[\/vc_tta_accordion]\n[vc_empty_space height=”35px”]\n[vc_column_text]\n

Results and follow-up questions<\/h2>\n

\nAfter your test has been processed, the result will be made available digitally. Below you will find more information about processing times, viewing results and any follow-up questions.\n<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[vc_tta_accordion style=”modern” shape=”rounded” color=”white” spacing=”4″ gap=”3″ c_icon=”chevron” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”]\n[vc_tta_section title=”When will I receive the results?” tab_id=”1616080715312-0f975e61-4bb2″]\n[vc_column_text]\nFor most tests, the aim is a processing time of approximately seven to ten working days<\/strong> after the sample has been received.<\/p>\n

A microbiome test has a longer processing time. You should generally allow approximately four weeks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The exact processing time may vary depending on the test and the situation.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”How will I receive the results?” tab_id=”1616080742971-37d60dc0-3330″]\n[vc_column_text]\nYour results are made available digitally via My account<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The report is provided as a PDF file and is not routinely sent by post.<\/p>\n

Your test data are processed and stored digitally and securely.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I do not understand my results. Who can I discuss them with?” tab_id=”1616080771153-9b50fb23-e49c”]\n[vc_column_text]\nFor practical questions about receiving or opening your results, you can contact Darmklachten.nl.<\/p>\n

However, our customer service does not provide personal medical advice and cannot interpret the content of your results for you.<\/p>\n

Do you have questions about the meaning of your results, your symptoms or possible next steps? You can schedule a telephone consultation with a healthcare professional<\/strong> .<\/p>\n

For results that may require treatment or additional medical testing, we also recommend discussing the results with your GP or treating physician.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”I tested positive for parasites. Should my partner or family also be tested?” tab_id=”1616080798554-89382589-4f88″]\n[vc_column_text]\nWhether your partner, family members or housemates should be tested depends, among other things, on the parasite found, any symptoms and the individual situation.<\/p>\n

Therefore, discuss a positive result with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional. They can assess whether additional testing of other people in the household is appropriate.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”How do I know if the intestinal parasites are gone after a course of treatment?” tab_id=”1616080826054-a27157d3-54f4″]\n[vc_column_text]\nAfter treatment, a follow-up test can be performed in some situations.<\/p>\n

The appropriate timing of a follow-up test depends on the parasite found and the treatment you received.<\/p>\n

Therefore, discuss with your doctor or healthcare professional when a follow-up test is most appropriate in your situation.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[vc_tta_section title=”Should I also have my pets tested if I have a parasitic infection?” tab_id=”1616080849255-f067d2de-635d”]\n[vc_column_text]\nSome parasites can also occur in animals, but this does not automatically mean that your pet is the source of an infection.<\/p>\n

You cannot request testing for pets through Darmklachten.nl.<\/p>\n

If you have reason to suspect that your pet has a parasitic infection, discuss this with your veterinarian.<\/p>\n

Good hand hygiene remains important, especially after contact with animal faeces.
\n[\/vc_column_text]\n[\/vc_tta_section]\n[\/vc_tta_accordion]\n[vc_empty_space height=”40px”]\n[vc_column_text]\n

\n

Do you still have a question?<\/h2>\n

\nCan\u2019t find the answer to your question above? Please feel free to contact us.
\nWe are happy to help with practical questions about our tests, test kits, orders, shipping and receiving results.\n<\/p>\n

\nTelephone:<\/strong> 058 2120025<\/a>
\nEmail:<\/strong> info@darmklachten.nl<\/a>\n<\/p>\n

\nDo you have a personal, medical or substantive question about your symptoms, test selection or test results?
\nYou can schedule a telephone consultation with a healthcare professional.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Frequently asked questions Do you have a question about our laboratory tests, ordering a test kit, collecting a sample or receiving your results? Below you will find answers to the questions we receive most often. Can\u2019t find your question?…<\/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":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/57659\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":60598,"href":"https:\/\/www.darmklachten.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/57659\/revisions\/60598"}],"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}]}}