At Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic, we use Complete Microbiome Mapping (GI-MAP) to gain a deep understanding of your gut microbiome and how it may be influencing your overall health. This advanced stool test analyses the DNA of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi living in your digestive tract, alongside markers of digestion, inflammation, and immune activation.
Whether you’re struggling with bloating, fatigue, IBS, skin issues, or immune dysfunction, the GI-MAP helps us get to the root cause by showing a clear picture of what’s happening inside your gut.
What Is the GI-MAP Test?
The GI-MAP is a DNA-based stool test that uses qPCR technology to detect and quantify microorganisms and key digestive health markers. It’s one of the most frequently ordered gut tests by our Melbourne naturopathy team. Unlike traditional stool tests, GI-MAP provides both presence and concentration of microbes, which helps determine whether something is clinically significant.
What Does It Test For?
GI-MAP tests for a wide range of microbes and functional markers, including:
- Bacterial overgrowths (including pathogenic and commensal strains)
- Parasites and worms
- Fungal species such as Candida
- Viruses including CMV and Epstein-Barr
- Zonulin (intestinal permeability marker)
- Calprotectin and secretory IgA (inflammation and immune response)
- Enzyme and digestion markers (elastase, steatocrit)
- Beta-glucuronidase (liver and hormone detox interaction)
Who Is This Test For?
We may recommend this test if you are experiencing:
- Bloating, constipation or diarrhoea
- Reflux or IBS symptoms
- Food intolerances or sensitivities
- Fatigue or low energy
- Recurrent infections or immune issues
- Skin conditions such as acne, rosacea or eczema
- Hormonal imbalances, mood disorders or brain fog
What Can It Help Identify?
GI-MAP helps uncover hidden imbalances such as:
- Dysbiosis (imbalance in beneficial vs harmful bacteria)
- Inflammation or leaky gut
- Gut infections, including parasites or yeasts
- Poor digestive enzyme output
- Immune dysregulation
- Gut-related drivers of hormonal or neurological symptoms
How Are Results Used?
The GI-MAP report is easy to interpret and practitioner-guided, outlining microbial overgrowths, imbalances, and functional issues. It helps us tailor a plan that may include herbal antimicrobials, probiotics, prebiotics, dietary changes, gut-healing nutrients, and lifestyle support.
Do I Need a Follow-Up Appointment?
Yes. A follow-up appointment is essential to explain your results and build a treatment plan that’s suited to your specific microbial profile. We may also recommend periodic retesting, depending on the complexity of your case.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re struggling with persistent gut symptoms or suspect your microbiome may be affecting your health, Complete Microbiome Mapping could offer the insight you need. Book an appointment with one of our experienced practitioners at Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic to begin your journey toward better digestive and overall wellbeing.
Not Sure Where to Begin?
You don’t need to diagnose yourself — that’s what we’re here for. Book an appointment with one of our experienced Melbourne-based naturopaths (in-clinic in South Melbourne or via telehealth Australia-wide) and we’ll help you figure out what’s going on and what you need next.
FAQs
The GI-MAP test used at MNMC analyses the DNA of microorganisms in your gut. A stool sample collected at home is sent to the laboratory for qPCR analysis. Unlike traditional stool cultures, GI-MAP identifies bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses along with markers of inflammation, immune function, and digestive capacity. The lab estimates results will take 3 weeks.
GI-MAP can help identify root causes of persistent bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, IBS, food intolerances, reflux, chronic fatigue, skin conditions like acne and eczema, hormonal imbalances, mood disorders, and brain fog. The test reveals bacterial overgrowths, parasitic infections, Candida, leaky gut, digestive enzyme deficiency, and immune activation.
Yes. Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic offers GI-MAP testing through telehealth for patients anywhere in Australia. Your practitioner orders the test and the collection kit is posted to your home. Results are reviewed in a follow-up telehealth appointment where your personalised treatment plan is created.
Generally avoid antimicrobial herbs, probiotics, and certain supplements for 2 weeks before collection. Avoid antibiotics for at least 4 weeks prior. There will be detailed instructions in your test kit supplied by MNMC. The stool sample is collected at home using the provided kit. Your practitioner will walk you through the full preparation protocol.
Comprehensive microbiome testing such as the GI-MAP typically costs around $550 through MNMC. This is a practitioner-ordered test, so the fee is in addition to your consultation cost. Microbiome testing is not covered by Medicare.
A standard stool culture looks for limited pathogenic bacteria for acute infections. GI-MAP is a DNA-based comprehensive test identifying over 30 targeted organisms plus functional markers like zonulin (leaky gut), calprotectin (inflammation), and digestive enzymes. GI-MAP measures organism concentration levels, providing far more detailed insight.
GI-MAP results typically take 3 weeks from when the laboratory receives your sample. Your MNMC practitioner will schedule a follow-up consultation once results are available to explain findings and design a personalised treatment plan.
Yes. The gut microbiome directly influences hormonal balance through the estrobolome — bacteria that metabolise oestrogen. Gut dysbiosis can disrupt oestrogen levels, affecting ovulation and cycle regularity. Poor gut health also impacts nutrient absorption critical for fertility and can impair methylation pathways.