Learn how to use HelloTummy

How do I collect my sample?

Keep every item in the kit until collection is complete. Activate the six-digit code on the sample tube, then follow these steps:

1. Set the tube, swab, stool catcher, absorbent bag, return box, and prepaid mailer near the toilet.
2. Unfold the stool catcher. Separate its two sheets, attach it across the center of the toilet seat, and press it down firmly.
3. Open the swab and unscrew the sample tube. Keep the liquid in the tube.
4. After passing stool onto the catcher, cover about half of the cotton swab tip with the sample.
5. Place the swab tip into the tube and stir gently. Break the swab at the marked notch so the tip stays in the tube.
6. Screw the cap on straight and tightly. Gently shake the tube and check that it does not leak.
7. Place the tube in the absorbent bag, seal the bag, and place it in the return box.
8. Tear the sides of the stool catcher so it falls into the toilet. Wait for it to soften, then flush and wash your hands.

How do I ship my kit back?

Put the sealed absorbent bag inside the return box. Place the box in the small prepaid return mailer and seal it. The return label is for the United States Postal Service (USPS), so place the package in your mailbox, take it to a USPS Post Office, or use a USPS blue collection box. Do not use UPS or FedEx. If the mailer or label is missing or damaged, contact us before mailing the sample.

When will my results be ready?

Your dashboard updates after the lab receives your package. The sample then moves through intake, DNA extraction, sequencing, data review, and final release. Processing times can vary. We will place a report link on your dashboard when the result is ready.

Why should I activate the tube before mailing it?

Activation connects the six-digit tube code to your account. Without that link, the lab may receive the sample but cannot place the result in your dashboard. If you already mailed an unregistered tube, contact support with the code as soon as possible.

What if collection does not go as planned?

Do not guess if the tube leaked, the liquid spilled, the sample touched toilet water, or a kit part is missing. Keep the tube and remaining materials, then email support. Tell us what happened and include the six-digit tube code if you have it.

Where should I start when reading my report?

Start with Overview for the whole-sample picture. Then open Gut microbes to review individual species, Understand for diversity and predicted functions, and Next steps for evidence-based ideas. Combine these views rather than treating any one number as a health score.

What do the percentages in my result mean?

A species percentage is its estimated share of the bacterial 16S sequences identified in that sample. It helps show which bacteria are prominent and how the community changes, but it is not an exact count of cells in your gut.

Can I download my results?

Yes. From the Dashboard, choose Download Your Data to create an Excel workbook or an AI-ready JSON file. You can choose whether to include questionnaire responses and exact collection and result dates. Protect the downloaded file because optional fields may contain sensitive information.

How does HelloTummy use my information?

HelloTummy uses account, sample, result, and optional context information to process kits, provide the portal, support customers, maintain quality, create population-level comparisons, and improve the service. We do not sell private or identifying information, and you can ask to exclude your data from future internal research use.

How do I contact support?

Email support@hellotummy.bio for help with activation, collection, USPS mailing, account access, sample status, reports, or downloads. Include your name and tube code when they are relevant, but do not send passwords or other sensitive account information.