Simple answers to frequently asked questions
General questions
How does an Ailin test work?
You receive the kit in 24-48h, take the sample in 5 min, programme collection and receive results with medical interpretation.
Are home blood tests reliable?
Yes, we work with CAP and ISO 15189 accredited laboratories following the standards in clinical health procedures.
Do I need a prescription for a medical test?
No. You can take any test without a prescription or appointment.
How do I know which test I need?
You can be guided by your symptoms, by a specific health objective (digestive, hormonal, metabolic, general wellbeing...) or by a medical recommendation. In addition, in each test you will find a clear explanation of what it analyses and for whom it is indicated.
If you have any doubts, our team can guide you before you make your purchase.
Are the results reliable?
Yes, the analyses are performed in certified laboratories and according to the same quality standards as in a clinical setting.
Autotest kits are designed to ensure sample stability and reliability of the result, provided the instructions are followed correctly.
How long does it take to get results?
Once the laboratory receives your sample, results are usually available within 24-48 working hours on average, although this time may vary slightly depending on the type of analysis.
In the case of food intolerance and SIBO tests, the usual turnaround time is approximately 5 working days, as they require specific processing.
We will notify you by email as soon as your report is available in your private user area so that you can consult it easily.
What happens if my result is altered?
If any parameter appears outside the reference values, you will see it clearly explained in your report. In these cases, we recommend that you see your doctor or specialist, who will be able to assess the result in your clinical context and, if necessary, request additional tests or initiate follow-up.
Do I need a prescription to buy a test?
Ailin's tests are designed to be easily and directly available to any adult, without the need for a prescription. This allows easy access to relevant information about your health and encourages a preventive and proactive approach.
Where are my samples analysed?
All samples are analysed in accredited clinical laboratories that comply with European health regulations and quality standards. Each type of test is sent to the appropriate specialised laboratory to ensure reliable and traceable results.
Are the results reviewed by a doctor?
It depends on the type of test:
- In blood tests, the results are validated by a registered medical team, which reviews the values and issues a report with a personalised clinical interpretation.
- In exhaled air intolerance tests, the results do not require medical validation, as they are based on the hydrogen and methane curve obtained in the laboratory. These reports include an interpretative explanation to help you understand the graph and its meaning.
How long does it take to get results?
Once the laboratory receives your sample, results are usually available within 24-48 working hours on average, although this time may vary slightly depending on the type of analysis.
In the case of food intolerance and SIBO tests, the usual turnaround time is approximately 5 working days, as they require specific processing.
We will notify you by email as soon as your report is available in your private user area so that you can consult it easily.
Is the package discreet?
Yes, absolutely. The shipment is sent in a neutral package with no visible Ailin logos or medical indications, so that your privacy is always protected. In addition, delivery and collection are handled by standard couriers, without the need to go to any centre.
Can I return my order?
Our kits are classified as Medical Devices in accordance with current legislation and regulated by the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS).
For legal and health safety reasons, we cannot accept returns once the order has been shipped, as it is not possible to guarantee the integrity, traceability and correct conservation of the product after it has left our facilities.
Do you ship throughout Spain?
We ship all over Spain and the Balearic Islands.
We currently do not ship to the Canary Islands, Ceuta or Melilla, due to the logistical and customs particularities of these territories.
How long do I have to make the sample from the time I receive the order?
All our kits have an expiry date that you can find on the back of the box, next to the batch number, indicating the deadline for collecting your sample. Even so, we recommend that you do not delay the collection of your sample for more than one month from the receipt of your kit and keep it in a place away from sunlight or high temperatures.
Can I take several tests on the same day?
It's up to you. Some users have no difficulty filling two or three tubes at a time, while others require more than one puncture and prefer to space them out over several days. Take advantage of the benefits of Ailin and set your own conditions, our kits are tailored to you.
Are the tests reliable?
Of course. The analysis technique for all our biomarkers has been validated through a clinical study with the Clínica Universidad de Navarra to guarantee that the results obtained are equivalent to those obtained by venipuncture samples, and we also carry out numerous control tests before launching each test. In addition, we only work with the best laboratories that can guarantee our quality standards.
How can I cancel my subscription?
Users may cancel their subscription by logging into their account in the subscriptions section of the Website. Users may cancel their subscriptions at any time, but they will only be effective if the following requirements are met:
- Users must give at least 48 hours' notice prior to the due date for payment of the subscription (to ensure that we can process your cancellation request in time).
- Users must have received the minimum quantity of kits required for their plan, shown in the table, in order to cancel their subscription. This policy is in place so that people do not take advantage of our discounted prices for one-off purchases.
| SUBSCRIPTION PLAN | MINIMUM NUMBER OF KITS REQUIRED FOR CANCELLATION |
| MONTHLY | 3 |
| QUARTERLY | 2 |
| SEMESTRAL | 2 |
| ANNUAL | 2 |
What if my payment method is out of date and I am subscribed to certain products?
Users authorise Ailin to store their payment methods and automatically charge the amount corresponding to the product and method of their subscription, until Users cancel their subscription. If your payment is rejected, you will be notified to update the information and complete the payment in your account and you will have 3 days to update your account or your cancellation will be put on “hold” until you update the payment method, and will be reactivated under the same conditions to which the User was subscribed.
Can I change my subscription plan from one plan type to another?
Users may change their subscription mode at any time by logging into their account in the subscriptions section of the Website, but this will only take effect if they notify us at least 48 hours before the due date for payment of the subscription (to ensure that we can process their request to change their subscription in a timely manner).
Essential analytics
Why is it important to monitor my cardiovascular health if I am diabetic or pre-diabetic?
Having diabetes is a cardiovascular risk factor, as is smoking, high blood pressure, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), in addition to controlling bad cholesterol (LDL) and blood pressure, must control glucose levels. Whether there is insufficient insulin production (type I DM) or insulin resistance (type II DM), glucose accumulates in the blood (hyperglycaemia) and this favours microvascular complications. On the other hand, the predisposition of diabetics to maintain high cholesterol levels favours a predisposition to atherosclerosis (cholesterol plaques adhering to the arteries, which, if obstructed, can lead to myocardial infarction or ischaemic stroke due to lack of blood flow).
How often should I repeat the essential blood test to see how it is progressing?
If the results are normal, we recommend a six-monthly or annual follow-up. If they are altered, you should repeat the analysis after 3 months to check their evolution.
What considerations should I take into account before taking the essential blood test?
The essential blood test does not require any special preparation. However, we recommend taking the sample first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, and even better, after a warm shower to get the blood flowing.
Antibodies for type 1 diabetes
What is the difference between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body stops producing insulin, requiring treatment with exogenous insulin from diagnosis. It usually appears in childhood or adolescence, although it can also occur in adults. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, develops through insulin resistance and is more lifestyle-related. It can be controlled with diet, exercise, oral medication and, in some cases, exogenous insulin. It is more common in adults, but can also occur in young people with risk factors.
What is type 1 diabetes?
It is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the pancreatic beta cells responsible for insulin production. As a result, the body loses its ability to regulate blood glucose levels.
What are the symptoms associated with type 1 diabetes?
Symptoms include excessive thirst, increased frequency of urination, constant hunger, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue and blurred vision. Irritability, weakness and, in more advanced cases, fruity-smelling breath due to ketosis may also occur.
LACK What are the risk factors for type 1 diabetes?
Symptoms include excessive thirst, increased frequency of urination, constant hunger, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue and blurred vision. Irritability, weakness and, in more advanced cases, fruity-smelling breath due to ketosis may also occur.
What are the risk factors for type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes (T1D1) has a genetic and environmental component. Having first-degree relatives with T1D or other autoimmune diseases such as thyroiditis, celiac disease or Addison's disease increases the risk, especially if the HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR4 genes are present. Environmental factors such as viral infections, alterations in the gut microbiota and certain elements in the early diet can trigger the autoimmune response.
Do I have to take this test on an empty stomach?
It is not necessary to perform the test on an empty stomach, as this test measures antibodies associated with the disease, and blood sugar levels do not affect the test result. Unlike the fasting glucose test, which tests blood sugar levels, diagnostic tests for type 1 diabetes look for autoimmune markers, such as autoantibodies against beta cells in the pancreas. Therefore, you can test at any time of the day without your diet influencing the results.
Coeliac disease
Which biomarkers are included and why?
- Total IgA.
- Tissue anti-tissue transglutaminase antibody - IgA. Screening or screening for coeliac disease is based on the measurement of serum anti-transglutaminase IgA antibodies, as this provides a high sensitivity (true positive rate). If there is a selective IgA deficiency, which is 20 times more frequent in coeliacs, IgG class antibodies (anti-transglutaminase, anti-endomysial or anti-gliadin deamidated peptides) will be assessed. In turn, this deficit must be confirmed with the rest of the immunoglobulins. According to the Spanish Society of Digestive Pathology, around 78% of the population is not yet diagnosed with coeliac disease, which means 1 in 357 adults in Spain and 1 in 71 children. Given its high prevalence and under-diagnosis, early detection is necessary.
I am already diagnosed with CD, will this test help me to assess whether I am following the gluten-free diet correctly?
This test is indicated to initiate the diagnosis of CD as it measures the presence of the main antibodies that people with coeliac disease develop. Once a diagnosis has been made and a gluten-free diet has been started, it is more appropriate to test for immunogenic gliadin peptides in urine or faeces to evaluate the diet.
Can the coeliac condition test diagnose me with coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten intolerance?
According to the latest 2020 guidelines of the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN), children and adolescents can be diagnosed with coeliac disease without biopsy if they have IgA anti-transglutaminase antibodies (more sensitive) 10 times higher than normal or IgA anti-endomysial antibodies (more specific). It is not necessary to present symptoms or to request a genetic study (HLA DQ2/8) in this case. A negative serology with compatible symptoms does not exclude the diagnosis of coeliac disease. However, in the event of a positive serology, you should see your specialist doctor for a duodenal biopsy (or the accessory tests that your doctor deems appropriate) that will allow a definitive diagnosis to be made.
What gluten-related disorders are there?
Coeliac disease is genetic in nature, has a high prevalence and is characterised by intolerance to gluten. Gluten is a protein that gives cohesiveness and the characteristic viscous and elastic texture to the dough of wheat, barley, rye, malt, semolina, oats, derivatives and variants. The ingestion of gluten causes lesions in the intestinal mucosa that result in digestive symptoms and may also present symptoms in other organs and systems (dermatitis herpetiformis, headache, tiredness, anaemia, osteoporosis, repeated miscarriages, etc.). Genetically predisposed individuals who develop the disease do not digest this protein, giving rise to protein fragments (prolamins), which are capable of activating the immune system and triggering symptoms. Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity presents symptoms very similar to coeliac disease but characteristically the antibodies are negative so the immune system does not intervene. Gluten and wheat allergy is also mediated by the immune system triggering a hypersensitivity reaction. Symptoms vary, and can cause oral itching, urticaria, lip oedema, difficulty breathing, etc.
How often should I have the coeliac condition test repeated to see how it is progressing?
If you have already been diagnosed with CD by your doctor, it is advisable to monitor the level of anti-transglutaminase antibodies 3-6 months and 12 months after starting the gluten-free diet.
What considerations should I take into account before taking the coeliac condition test?
The coeliac condition test does not require any special preparation. However, if you have symptoms consistent with coeliac condition (e.g. diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, abdominal discomfort, foul-smelling stools, gas, nausea or vomiting), you should continue to eat gluten-containing foods before taking the test. If you have previously eliminated gluten from your diet, it is possible that the results will be negative, so you should see your specialist doctor for a gluten re-exposure by consuming 8-10g/day of gluten for several weeks before repeating this test. If there is a high suspicion of a gluten-related disorder, you should see your medical specialist.
Cardiovascular monitoring
How often should I repeat the cardiovascular monitoring test to check my progress?
If the results are normal, we recommend a six-monthly follow-up. If they are altered or you modify your treatment, you should repeat the analysis after 3 months to check the evolution.
Why is it important to monitor my cardiovascular health if I am diabetic or pre-diabetic?
Having diabetes is a cardiovascular risk factor, as is smoking, high blood pressure, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), in addition to controlling bad cholesterol (LDL) and blood pressure, must control glucose levels. Whether there is insufficient insulin production (type I DM) or insulin resistance (type II DM), glucose accumulates in the blood (hyperglycaemia) and this favours microvascular complications. On the other hand, the predisposition of diabetics to maintain high cholesterol levels favours a predisposition to atherosclerosis (cholesterol plaques adhering to the arteries, which, if obstructed, can lead to myocardial infarction or ischaemic stroke due to lack of blood flow).
What considerations should I take into account before taking the cardiovascular monitoring test?
The cardiovascular monitoring test does not require any special preparation. However, we recommend taking the sample first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, and even better, after a warm shower to get the blood flowing.
What does it mean if biomarkers are out of range?
When biomarkers are outside normal ranges, it indicates a possible increased risk of cardiovascular problems. For example, elevated LDL cholesterol or reduced glomerular filtration rate requires medical intervention to mitigate the risk of events such as heart attacks or chronic kidney failure.
Hormone cycle monitoring
How do hormones fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle?
Throughout the menstrual cycle, female hormones fluctuate significantly to prepare the body for ovulation and possible pregnancy. The typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but can vary from 21 to 35 days in adult women. During this time, the hormones involved in the menstrual cycle, including estrogen, progesterone and luteinizing hormone (LH), undergo regular changes. Here is an overview of how female hormones fluctuate during the menstrual cycle:
- Follicular phase: At the beginning of the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels begin to rise and stimulate the growth and development of the lining of the uterus. It also stimulates the development of follicles in the ovaries.
- Ovulation: In the middle of the menstrual cycle, levels of luteinising hormone (LH) rise significantly, triggering the release of the mature egg from the ovary.
- Luteal phase: After ovulation, the follicle turns into a corpus luteum and begins to produce progesterone. Progesterone helps thicken the lining of the uterus to prepare it for possible pregnancy. If the egg is not fertilised, the corpus luteum breaks down and levels of oestrogen and progesterone decrease, causing the menstrual cycle to begin.
- In short, female hormones fluctuate during the menstrual cycle to prepare the body for ovulation and possible pregnancy. Estrogen and progesterone levels are especially important in controlling the menstrual cycle and female fertility.
Why are hormone levels measured at two different times in the cycle?
For the correct measurement of our hormones throughout the cycle, we must understand that the sample must be taken at the right time for each hormone. This is because our female sex hormone levels fluctuate throughout the cycle. Therefore, for the measurement of prolactin, estradiol, LH and FSH, we should take our sample between days 3 and 5 of our menstrual cycle. Whereas, for progesterone measurement, you should take your sample 7 to 9 days before your next cycle.
Can I take the menstrual cycle control test if I am pregnant?
Yes, you can take this test if you are pregnant. However, you should understand that your female sex hormone levels will naturally be altered with pregnancy and will move into other ranges, which we will consider when interpreting your results.
When does my menstrual cycle start?
The first day of your menstrual cycle will be the day you start your period and will last until the first day of your next period, lasting about 21 to 35 days in adult women. Therefore, to take your two menstrual cycle tests, you should count the days from the first day you start your period.
Can I take the menstrual cycle control test if I am on contraceptive treatment?
You can take the test, however, you should be aware that the results for this test may be altered if you are on contraceptives (including the pill, IUD, ring, etc.).
What considerations should I take into account before taking a menstrual cycle monitoring test?
The menstrual cycle monitoring test does not require any special preparation. However, you should be aware that the use of contraceptives or the use of drugs may affect the results of the test.
Weight control
How often should I repeat the weight control test to check my progress?
If the results are normal, we recommend a six-monthly or annual follow-up. If they are altered, you should repeat the analysis after 3 months to check their evolution.
What considerations should I take into account before taking the Weight Control test?
You must fast for at least 8 hours (you can drink water).
Diabetes
How can the assessment of HbA1C levels help in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus?
Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) is a variant of haemoglobin bound to glucose and its ratio roughly represents the average blood glucose over the last three months. Values above 6.5% are considered highly suspicious for diabetes and is the most useful tool for monitoring glycaemic control. However, a single measurement is usually not sufficient to make a definitive diagnosis. Further tests are usually required and should be ordered by your doctor.
How often should I repeat the diabetes test to check my progress?
If the results are normal, we recommend a six-monthly follow-up. If they are altered or you modify your treatment, you should repeat the analysis after 3 months to check the evolution.
What considerations should I take into account before taking the diabetes test?
The diabetes test does not require any special preparation. However, we recommend taking the sample first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, and even better, after a warm shower to get the blood flowing.
Advanced stress
How often should I repeat the stress test to see how it evolves?
Although hormone levels are highly variable, a quarterly assessment may be the best way to see if lifestyle changes have had an effect on these markers.
What factors can cause my cortisol levels to be elevated?
Cortisol is considered a stress hormone because its functions include raising blood sugar levels to give our cells extra energy in times of stress or illness and to fight inflammation. Cortisol can therefore be chronically elevated due to: - Chronic exposure to physical or emotional stress. - Extreme fasting and not consuming enough carbohydrates for long periods of time. - Suffering from chronic low-grade inflammation (due to food intolerances, viruses and infections, bacterial overgrowth, etc.). - Prolonged use of corticosteroid treatment.
How do cortisol concentrations vary throughout the day?
Cortisol concentrations vary biologically throughout the day in a circadian, i.e. daily, pattern. Cortisol levels are highest in the morning around 08:00 and decrease to their lowest levels in the evening around 23:00. In the early morning, around 03:00-04:00, they increase again and the cycle repeats itself.
What are the consequences of chronically elevated cortisol levels?
Cortisol is a hormone formed in the adrenal glands that helps the body get extra energy to cope with times of stress or when glucose levels are low by breaking down tissues through a process known as catabolism. While it may be useful for short periods of time, maintaining chronically high cortisol levels can trigger a number of consequences that negatively affect your health. The main ones include - Weakening of the immune system. - Sleep disorders. - Thyroid function disorders. - Anxiety and depression. - poorer recovery after exercise - menstrual cycle imbalances. - Other imbalances: weight gain, increased blood pressure and excess blood glucose.
What considerations should I take into account before conducting the stress test?
It must be done on an empty stomach (8 hours, you can drink water), it must be done first thing in the morning and it is recommended to have had a good night's rest or at least one day with the usual routine.
Basic stress
How often should I repeat the stress test to see how it evolves?
Although hormone levels are highly variable, a quarterly assessment may be the best way to see if lifestyle changes have had an effect on these markers.
What factors can cause my cortisol levels to be elevated?
Cortisol is considered a stress hormone because its functions include raising blood sugar levels to give our cells extra energy in times of stress or illness and to fight inflammation. Cortisol can therefore be chronically elevated due to: - Chronic exposure to physical or emotional stress. - Extreme fasting and not consuming enough carbohydrates for long periods of time. - Suffering from chronic low-grade inflammation (due to food intolerances, viruses and infections, bacterial overgrowth, etc.). - Prolonged use of corticosteroid treatment.
How do cortisol concentrations vary throughout the day?
Cortisol concentrations vary biologically throughout the day in a circadian, i.e. daily, pattern. Cortisol levels are highest in the morning around 08:00 and decrease to their lowest levels in the evening around 23:00. In the early morning, around 03:00-04:00, they increase again and the cycle repeats itself.
What are the consequences of chronically elevated cortisol levels?
Cortisol is a hormone formed in the adrenal glands that helps the body get extra energy to cope with times of stress or when glucose levels are low by breaking down tissues through a process known as catabolism. While it may be useful for short periods of time, maintaining chronically high cortisol levels can trigger a number of consequences that negatively affect your health. The main ones include - Weakening of the immune system. - Sleep disorders. - Thyroid function disorders. - Anxiety and depression. - poorer recovery after exercise - menstrual cycle imbalances. - Other imbalances: weight gain, increased blood pressure and excess blood glucose.
What considerations should I take into account before conducting the stress test?
It must be done on an empty stomach (8 hours, you can drink water), it must be done first thing in the morning and it is recommended to have had a good night's rest or at least one day with the usual routine.