Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood draw
- Fasting: 8 hours required
- Turn-around: 3–6 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- No doctor referral needed - get tested on your schedule
- Comprehensive hormone screening - 7 biomarkers in one panel
- Significant cost savings - up to 70% less than traditional healthcare
- Confidential results - secure online access to your data
- Early detection - catch imbalances before symptoms worsen
- Baseline establishment - track changes over time
Who Is This Test For?
- Men over 40 experiencing unexplained fatigue or low energy
- Those with decreased libido or erectile dysfunction concerns
- Men noticing mood changes, irritability, or depression symptoms
- Athletes or fitness enthusiasts monitoring hormone optimization
- Individuals with family history of hormone-related conditions
- Men considering testosterone therapy who need baseline measurements
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - no appointment needed, visit any partner location
- Get tested - quick blood draw by certified healthcare professional
- Review results - secure online access within 3-6 business days
FAQ
What hormones does this panel measure? This comprehensive panel tests testosterone (total and free), insulin, FSH, LH, estradiol, DHEA-S, and TSH to evaluate your complete hormonal profile.
Do I need to prepare for this test? Yes, fast for 8 hours before your blood draw and schedule it in the morning when testosterone levels are naturally highest. Discontinue biotin supplements 72 hours prior.
How do I know if my results are normal? Total testosterone below 300 ng/dL is generally considered low, while optimal levels range between 500-1,000 ng/dL. Your results include reference ranges for all biomarkers tested.
Can this test diagnose low testosterone definitively? A diagnosis requires both consistently low testosterone measurements and the presence of specific symptoms. If initial results are borderline, a second morning test is recommended for confirmation.
Will my insurance cover this test? This is a direct-pay service that doesn't require insurance. Our discounted pricing ($269) is often less than insurance copays and deductibles.
How often should I get this test? For baseline establishment, once is sufficient. For ongoing monitoring, annually after age 40 or as recommended by your healthcare provider based on initial results.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This panel screens for hormone imbalances related to andropause or testosterone deficiency syndrome in men. As testosterone levels naturally decline after age 40, many men experience symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life. This comprehensive evaluation measures key hormones that affect male health, energy, sexual function, and overall vitality (American Urological Association, 2024).
The test evaluates both primary hormones like testosterone and supporting hormones that influence overall hormonal balance. By measuring multiple biomarkers simultaneously, it provides a complete picture of your hormonal health rather than focusing on a single hormone in isolation.
Who would benefit from this test?
Men experiencing symptoms of testosterone deficiency benefit most from this comprehensive panel. According to the American Urological Association (2024), key symptoms include decreased sex drive, fatigue, reduced muscle mass, irritability, mood swings, erectile dysfunction, and depression.
This test is particularly valuable for men over 40, as testosterone levels typically begin declining after this age. Men with risk factors like diabetes, obesity, chronic steroid use, or prior chemotherapy should also consider baseline testing (AUA, 2018). Additionally, men seeking proactive health management or those considering hormone optimization can establish important baseline values.
When should I order Hormone #1 Baseline Blood Test Panel, Men?
Consider ordering this panel if you're experiencing unexplained fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, or reduced muscle mass. It's recommended for men over 40 as a preventive health measure, given that testosterone naturally declines with age.
The test is also appropriate before starting fitness programs, weight management plans, or if you're investigating potential causes of fertility concerns. Men with chronic conditions affecting hormone production or those taking medications that may impact testosterone should establish baseline measurements for future monitoring.
How do I interpret the results?
Your results will include reference ranges for each biomarker tested. Here's a general interpretation guide:
- Total Testosterone (300–1,000 ng/dL): Low levels may indicate hypogonadism or andropause.
- Free Testosterone (9–30 ng/dL): Low levels may suggest active hormone deficiency.
- LH (1.7–8.6 mIU/mL): Low levels can help distinguish between primary and secondary hypogonadism.
- FSH (1.5–12.4 mIU/mL): Low levels may point to testicular dysfunction.
- TSH (0.45–4.5 uIU/mL): Low levels may signal thyroid dysfunction affecting hormone levels.
A diagnosis of testosterone deficiency requires both consistently low measurements and the presence of specific symptoms or signs.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
Fast for 8 hours prior to testing (water is permitted). Schedule your blood draw in the morning when testosterone levels are naturally highest. If taking biotin supplements, discontinue them 72 hours before testing as they may interfere with results.
Continue prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise by your physician. Avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours before the test, as this can temporarily affect hormone levels.
How often should I get tested?
- Baseline establishment (men over 40): Once, then annually
- If symptoms are present: Initial test, then every 3–6 months
- While on hormone therapy: Every 3–6 months
- To monitor treatment response: As directed by your healthcare provider
- For high-risk conditions: Every 6–12 months
Why early detection matters
Hypogonadism affects approximately 4-5 million men in the United States, yet only about 5% receive appropriate treatment (Boston University Medical Center, 2003). Early detection enables timely intervention, potentially improving quality of life and preventing long-term complications.
Untreated testosterone deficiency can lead to decreased bone density, increased cardiovascular risk, metabolic syndrome, and reduced cognitive function. The annual incidence of testosterone deficiency is estimated at 16.1 cases per 100,000 person-years, with the highest rates among men aged 35-44 (Nature, 2021).
Related tests you may consider
Health Check Blood and Urine Test Panel, Men - Evaluates overall health by testing blood, urine, and hormone levels to check for issues with heart health, kidney function, blood sugar, prostate health, and testosterone, making it useful for men who want to monitor their well-being.
Hormone #2 Essential Blood Test Panel, Men - Expanded hormone evaluation including IGF-1 and PSA for men with complex symptoms or those on hormone therapy.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) #1 Baseline Panel - Targeted evaluation for men specifically experiencing erectile dysfunction, including cardiovascular and metabolic factors.
