Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (Morning collection 7am-10am)
- Fasting: No special preparation is required. Stop biotin 8 hours before testing; if taking high doses, stop 72 hours before testing.
- Turnaround: 1-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures total testosterone in the blood, using an immunoassay (IA) method, for adult males. Total testosterone includes both the unbound (free) testosterone and the testosterone bound to proteins such as SHBG or albumin. This test reports total testosterone as a single combined value, it does not separately measure or report the free (unbound) fraction.
Total testosterone is a directly measured circulating hormone, not a calculated value. It reflects overall testosterone levels in the body rather than isolating the biologically active, unbound portion.
Benefits
- Measures total circulating testosterone levels in adult males.
- Helps evaluate possible signs of low testosterone.
- Supports monitoring of gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender men.
- Can help assess causes of infertility in males.
- Useful for tracking infertility treatment progress over time.
Who Is This Test For?
- Adult males experiencing possible symptoms of low testosterone.
- Males being evaluated for infertility.
- Males currently monitoring infertility treatment.
- Transgender men monitoring gender-affirming testosterone hormone therapy.
- Males with unexplained muscle weakness or bone concerns.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this hormone test?
This test measures total testosterone, the combined amount of free and protein-bound testosterone circulating in the blood, using an immunoassay method for adult males. It can help a healthcare provider evaluate testosterone levels as part of a broader assessment of symptoms such as low sex drive, infertility, or muscle weakness. This test alone does not diagnose any condition.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
Adult males who want to check their total testosterone levels may benefit from this test, including those being evaluated for infertility or monitoring infertility treatment. Transgender men undergoing gender-affirming testosterone therapy may also use this test to help monitor their hormone levels over time, in consultation with their healthcare provider.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider ordering this test if you are experiencing symptoms associated with a testosterone deficiency, are being evaluated for infertility, or are monitoring infertility treatment. Transgender men undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy may also use this test as part of ongoing monitoring with a healthcare provider. This test does not replace a full medical evaluation.
4. How does this test differ from other hormone tests?
This test measures total testosterone only, meaning it reports the combined free and protein-bound testosterone as a single directly measured value. It does not separately report free testosterone, and it does not measure other hormones or provide a broader hormonal assessment. It should not be treated as interchangeable with a free testosterone test, since each measures a different fraction of the hormone.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required. Stop biotin 8 hours before testing; if taking high doses, stop 72 hours before testing.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 1-3 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holidays, or other lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your total testosterone result depends on your individual symptoms, medical history, age, and other factors. Because this test measures the combined free and bound testosterone, results are often interpreted alongside your overall clinical picture and, when relevant, alongside other hormone measurements. An abnormal result does not automatically confirm a hormonal condition, and a normal result does not automatically rule one out.
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.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your total testosterone results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether further evaluation or additional testing is appropriate based on your individual health history. This test result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion.
9. How often should I get tested?
How often you should be tested depends on your individual health needs and the reason for testing. Follow the guidance of your healthcare provider regarding retesting, as they can recommend a schedule appropriate for your situation.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required. Stop biotin 8 hours before testing; if taking high doses, stop 72 hours before testing.
