<b>SELFCheck Thyroid Health Test Kit – FAQs</b>
<b>What is the SELFCheck Thyroid Health Test?</b>
The SELFCheck Thyroid Health Test is a quick and easy finger-prick blood test you can perform at home to check for an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), with clear results in just 10 minutes.

<b>How does hypothyroidism affect the body?</b>
An underactive thyroid can slow your metabolism, leading to tiredness, weight gain, low mood, dry skin, and feeling cold. It can also affect muscle strength and function, including the pelvic floor muscles, which play a key role in bladder and bowel control.

<b>How is thyroid health linked to pelvic floor and bladder problems?</b>
Thyroid hormones help regulate muscle tone and nerve function throughout the body. Low thyroid hormone levels can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and reduced muscle responsiveness, which may affect the pelvic floor. This can increase the risk of urinary incontinence, reduced bladder control, and pelvic organ prolapse. Hypothyroidism is also associated with constipation, which can put extra strain on the pelvic floor over time.

<b>Why should I check my thyroid if I have bladder or pelvic floor symptoms?</b>
If you’re experiencing bladder leaks, frequent urination, constipation, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness alongside tiredness, weight gain, or low mood, it’s worth checking your thyroid function. An underactive thyroid could be contributing to both sets of symptoms.

<b>Who should use this test?</b>
This test is ideal for adults, particularly women (who are 10 times more likely than men to develop hypothyroidism), experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, low mood, constipation, or pelvic floor weakness.

<b>What should I do if my result is positive?</b>
If your result indicates hypothyroidism, you should contact your GP to arrange further testing and discuss treatment options. Early treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of related complications, including pelvic floor weakness.

<b>Does a negative result mean my symptoms aren’t related to my thyroid?</b>
A negative result suggests your thyroid function is within the normal range. If symptoms persist, you may need to explore other possible causes with your GP or a specialist.

<b>My friend has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism - this was causing her Stress Incontinence - I also have similar symptoms - should I test?</b>
If you're working hard on your pelvic floor but not seeing the results you'd expect, your thyroid could be part of the story. A recent clinical study found that nearly half of women diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence also had hypothyroidism — a condition that affects muscle function, connective tissue, and neuromuscular response. Many had no idea. Because an underactive thyroid can quietly undermine the very muscles you're trying to strengthen, checking your thyroid is a smart first step. The Kegel8 Thyroid Test Kit lets you do that simply, at home.

<b>How accurate is the SELFCheck Thyroid Health Test?</b>
The test is designed for reliable screening at home, using a finger-prick blood sample to detect raised levels of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), which may indicate an underactive thyroid.

<b>What’s included in the kit?</b>
The kit contains everything you need for testing at home: a test device, lancet, sample collector, buffer solution, and clear instructions for use.

<b>Can I use this test instead of seeing my doctor?</b>
No – the SELFCheck Thyroid Health Test is a screening tool and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your GP if you have symptoms or concerns.

<b>My Mum has hypothyroidism - could I also have it? </b>
If your mum has hypothyroidism, it's a really sensible question to ask. Thyroid conditions do run in families — having a close relative with hypothyroidism can increase your own risk significantly. Combined with stress urinary incontinence, it's absolutely worth checking. A recent clinical study found that nearly half of women diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence also had hypothyroidism, often without knowing it. A simple home test is an easy first step — and if it comes back positive, your GP can take it from there.