Testing & Investigations
Understanding the underlying drivers of health concerns sometimes requires looking beyond standard medical testing.
Dr Kerry Aston offers a range of advanced laboratory investigations that can provide deeper insight into factors such as hormones, metabolism, gut health, nutrient status and inflammation.
Testing is never routine and is only recommended when it adds clear clinical value.
All investigations are discussed during consultation to ensure they are appropriate for your symptoms and health goals.
Results are reviewed and interpreted with you during a follow-up appointment so that findings can be placed in the context of your overall health and translated into a clear plan.
Testing Through Consultation
Advanced testing is available only as part of a consultation.
This ensures that investigations are carefully selected, clinically relevant and interpreted accurately.
Where possible, existing NHS or private test results are reviewed first to avoid unnecessary duplication.
Commonly Recommended Tests
Depending on your symptoms and health concerns, investigations may include:
Hormone Testing
Comprehensive hormone assessment can help explore symptoms such as PMS, fatigue, low mood, menstrual irregularities or hormonal changes during perimenopause.
Hormone testing may include assessment of:
• Oestrogen and progesterone patterns
• Stress hormones such as cortisol
• Hormonal balance across the menstrual cycle
These tests can be particularly helpful when symptoms suggest hormone imbalance or complex cycle-related changes.
Gut Health & Digestive Testing
Comprehensive stool testing can help identify factors contributing to digestive symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea or food reactions.
These tests assess areas such as:
• digestion and absorption
• inflammation within the gut
• microbiome balance
• potential pathogenic organisms
They can be particularly helpful in people with digestive symptoms, autoimmune disease or persistent gut disturbances.
Metabolic & Nutritional Testing
Metabolic testing provides insight into how the body produces energy and manages oxidative stress.
These tests may assess:
• mitochondrial energy production
• vitamin and mineral status
• amino acids
• oxidative stress and detoxification pathways
They are often useful in people experiencing persistent fatigue, reduced performance or complex health issues.
Genetic Insights
Genetic testing can provide information about how individual genetic variations influence areas such as:
• detoxification pathways
• inflammation
• nutrient metabolism
• hormone processing
These insights can support long-term personalised health planning.
Food Sensitivity Testing
Food sensitivity testing may be considered in people experiencing symptoms such as:
• bloating or digestive discomfort
• fatigue
• skin issues
• joint pain
Testing can sometimes help guide short-term elimination strategies while underlying gut health and inflammation are addressed.
A Thoughtful Approach to Testing
Testing is only recommended when it is likely to change clinical decisions or support treatment planning.
Many patients benefit from a focused clinical assessment and lifestyle strategy without the need for extensive testing.
Where tests are recommended, the aim is always to provide useful, actionable information that helps guide personalised care.
Consultations
Testing is available only as part of a consultation with Dr Kerry Aston.
Consultations are currently held at Beechill Clinic in South Belfast, with some appointments available online where appropriate.