VEI Check · Gut Microbiome

Looking into persistent gut discomfort:
gut microbiome testing

A gut microbiome test is a non-invasive test that uses a stool sample to look at the makeup and diversity of the bacteria living in your gut. When discomfort such as bloating, frequent gas or irregular bowel movements lasts a long time, it helps us assess your current gut environment and guide changes to your eating habits.

VEI Clinic, Gangnam — VEI Check · Gut Microbiome

Who It May Suit

People with ongoing bloating, gas or irregular bowel movements
People who feel their gut changed after taking antibiotics
People with recurring bouts of constipation or diarrhea
People who want a baseline before changing their diet or starting probiotics
People curious about how weight, appetite or energy changes relate to their gut

What the Test Covers

The scope of analysis depends on the type of test, which you choose together with the specialist.

Diversity measures of gut bacteria
Relative proportions of beneficial bacteria and bacteria worth watching
Markers related to short-chain fatty acids (estimated from bacterial makeup)
A score showing the balance of the gut environment
A choice between a standard profile (16S rRNA) and a detailed analysis (metagenomic)
Calprotectin, occult blood or parasite tests, added separately when needed

Before Your Test

If medically safe, avoid antibiotics for about 4 weeks before testing, or follow your doctor's guidance
We may suggest pausing high-dose probiotics 3 to 7 days before testing
If you had bowel prep for a colonoscopy in the past 2 weeks, we will postpone the test
Collect the sample while eating your usual diet
Follow the kit instructions exactly (collection timing, storage and labeling)

How a Visit Works

Results usually take about 2 to 4 weeks and may vary by test type and lab.

Consultation: we review your symptoms, eating habits, medications and supplements
We choose the test type and any add-on tests
You collect the sample at home with a kit, or receive guidance at the clinic
A partner lab analyzes the sample
We explain the results and guide you on eating habits, probiotics and prebiotics, and further testing or care when needed

When This Test Is Not the Right Fit

A gut microbiome test does not replace emergency or urgent care. If you have chest pain, severe shortness of breath, heavy bleeding or confusion, call 119 or go to an emergency room.

Severe abdominal pain, high fever, bloody stool or signs of dehydration that need prompt care
Recent bowel prep for a colonoscopy
Recent use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that calls for a waiting period
Difficulty following the home collection steps

The VEI Clinic Approach

An internal medicine specialist with subspecialty certification in gastrointestinal endoscopy first reviews your symptoms and decides whether a microbiome test is suitable or whether another test should come first.

The results are a reference to help you understand your gut, and interpretation can vary from person to person. The specialist decides on a care plan based on the results after your consultation.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is the test painful or difficult?

It is a non-invasive test using a stool sample. You collect it at home following the kit instructions and submit it.

I take probiotics. Can I still be tested?

High-dose probiotics can affect the results, so we may suggest pausing them 3 to 7 days before testing. During your consultation, please tell us which products you take.

Can this test detect gut disease?

It is not a test for diagnosing gut disease. If your symptoms suggest that another test, such as endoscopy, should come first, we will point you in that direction.

When will my results be ready?

Usually in about 2 to 4 weeks. When they are ready, we explain them and outline the next steps for your care.