Ulta Lab Tests

Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Folate Serum, Folic Acid

Folate, Serum

Folate is part of the B complex of vitamins and is measures the levels of folate in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Folate is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis.. A deficiency inr folate can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow.

Magnesium

Also known as: Inorganic Phosphate, P, Phosphate as Phosphorus, Phosphorus, PO4

Phosphate (As Phosphorus)

This test is performed to see how much phosphorus in your blood. Kidney, liver, and certain bone diseases can cause abnormal phosphorus levels.

Selenium

Also known as: B6, B6 Vitamin, Pyridoxal, Pyridoxal Phosphate, Pyridoxal Phosphate (PLP), Vitamin B6 Pyridoxal Phosphate

Vitamin B6

Also known as: Alpha-Tocopherol, Vitamin E Tocopherol

Alpha-Tocopherol

Beta-Gamma-Tocopherol

Also known as: ZN, Plasma

Zinc

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The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients panel contains 7 tests with 8 biomarkers .

The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients is a specialized diagnostic tool designed to assess the levels of essential vitamins and minerals that may be affected by the use of oral contraceptives. Oral contraceptives are widely used for birth control and to manage various gynecological conditions, but they can interfere with the absorption and metabolism of several nutrients. This panel evaluates key nutrients to identify deficiencies that can impact overall health and well-being, allowing healthcare providers to address these issues proactively.

When and Why the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients May Be Ordered

This panel may be ordered for women who have been using oral contraceptives for an extended period, particularly if they exhibit symptoms suggestive of nutrient deficiencies such as fatigue, mood swings, muscle cramps, or immune dysfunction. It is also useful for routine monitoring in women who are on long-term oral contraceptive therapy to ensure they maintain adequate nutrient levels. Additionally, the panel can be ordered for women planning to conceive, as addressing any deficiencies before pregnancy can promote better maternal and fetal health.

What the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients Checks For

The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients includes several tests to measure levels of essential vitamins and minerals:

  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Vitamin B6 is crucial for protein metabolism, cognitive development, and the production of neurotransmitters. Oral contraceptives can affect Vitamin B6 metabolism, leading to deficiencies that may result in symptoms such as irritability, depression, and confusion.
  • Vitamin B9 (Folate): Folate is vital for DNA synthesis, repair, and red blood cell production. Deficiency in folate can lead to anemia, fatigue, and in pregnant women, an increased risk of neural tube defects in the fetus.
  • Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress. Deficiency can impair immune function and lead to neurological problems.
  • Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone health. Oral contraceptives can lower magnesium levels, leading to symptoms such as muscle cramps, fatigue, and cardiovascular issues.
  • Phosphorus: Phosphorus is essential for the formation of bones and teeth, energy production, and cell membrane integrity. Deficiency can lead to bone pain, muscle weakness, and respiratory issues.
  • Selenium: Selenium is important for antioxidant defense and thyroid function. Deficiency can impair immune function and contribute to thyroid disorders.
  • Zinc: Zinc is crucial for immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. Deficiency can result in impaired immune response, hair loss, and skin issues.

How a Healthcare Professional Would Use the Results of the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients

Healthcare professionals use the results of the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients to:

  • Diagnose and Treat Nutrient Deficiencies: Identifying specific nutrient deficiencies allows healthcare providers to recommend appropriate supplements and dietary changes. For instance, if a magnesium deficiency is detected, providers might suggest magnesium supplements and advise incorporating magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens into the diet.
  • Develop Personalized Nutrition Plans: Based on the panel results, healthcare providers can create customized nutrition plans that include alternative sources of the deficient nutrients. For example, advising on foods fortified with Vitamin B6 and folate or encouraging the consumption of foods rich in Vitamin E and zinc.
  • Monitor Nutritional Status: Regular testing helps ensure that the patient maintains adequate nutrient levels over time, allowing for timely interventions if deficiencies develop. This ongoing monitoring is crucial for managing the long-term health of individuals on oral contraceptive therapy.
  • Educate Patients and Caregivers: The results can be used to educate patients and their caregivers about the importance of meeting nutritional needs while using oral contraceptives. This includes guidance on reading food labels, selecting appropriate supplements, and incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into the diet.

Conclusion

The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Oral Contraceptive Patients is an essential tool for managing the nutritional health of women using oral contraceptives. By assessing levels of key vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9, Vitamin E, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Selenium, and Zinc, this panel helps healthcare providers identify deficiencies and develop effective treatment plans. Ensuring adequate nutrient intake through supplements and dietary modifications is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing the complications associated with nutrient deficiencies. Regular monitoring and personalized nutrition plans based on the panel results support the long-term well-being of patients using oral contraceptives.

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