Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (Morning collection 7am-10am)
- Fasting: No special preparation is required. Stop biotin supplements for at least 72 hours before testing, as biotin may interfere with test results.
- Turnaround: 1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures total testosterone in your blood using a mass spectrometry (MS) method. Total testosterone includes both the unbound (free) testosterone and the portion that is bound to proteins in the blood, such as SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) or albumin. This test reports total testosterone only, it does not separately measure or report free testosterone as its own value.
Testosterone is a hormone that supports the development of male physical features and reproductive functions, and it is also produced in smaller amounts by women. Because this test measures the combined bound and unbound testosterone circulating in your blood, it reflects your overall testosterone level rather than only the biologically active portion. Any result above 1500 will be reported as ">1500."
Benefits
- Provides a clear measure of your total circulating testosterone level.
- Helps evaluate possible causes of low or abnormal testosterone.
- Supports monitoring of testosterone levels during treatment.
- Uses a blood sample with no special preparation required.
- Results are typically available in 1-2 days.
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults with symptoms of low testosterone, such as reduced sex drive.
- Individuals experiencing erectile dysfunction who want to check testosterone levels.
- Those evaluating possible causes of infertility.
- People monitoring testosterone levels during infertility treatment.
- Transgender men monitoring testosterone during gender-affirming hormone therapy.
- Individuals with unexplained muscle weakness, brittle bones, or anemia.
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 bound and unbound testosterone circulating in your blood, using a mass spectrometry method. It can help a healthcare provider evaluate symptoms or conditions related to abnormally high or low testosterone levels. This test does not diagnose a specific condition on its own; it provides a measurement that your healthcare provider can use as part of a broader evaluation.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may be useful for individuals experiencing symptoms associated with a testosterone imbalance, such as reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, or unexplained muscle weakness. It may also benefit those evaluating or monitoring infertility, as well as transgender men monitoring testosterone levels during gender-affirming hormone therapy. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether this test is appropriate for your situation.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider ordering this test if you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to a testosterone imbalance, such as loss of sex drive, erectile dysfunction, or muscle weakness. It may also be useful when evaluating or monitoring infertility, or when monitoring testosterone levels during gender-affirming hormone therapy. This test does not replace evaluation by a healthcare provider.
4. How does this test differ from other hormone tests?
This test reports total testosterone only, which combines both the protein-bound and unbound (free) forms of testosterone into a single value. It does not separately report a free testosterone result. Because total testosterone reflects the overall amount circulating in your blood rather than only the biologically active portion, it provides different information than a test that measures free testosterone alone.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required. Stop biotin supplements for at least 72 hours before testing, as biotin may interfere with test results.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 1-2 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 factors such as your age, sex, symptoms, medical history, and any medications or supplements you take. Because this test reports a combined bound and unbound value, your healthcare provider may consider it alongside other clinical information when reviewing your results. One abnormal result does not automatically confirm a hormonal condition, and one normal result does not automatically rule one out. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider.
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 results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing may be appropriate based on your symptoms and health history. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment based on this result alone.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no set schedule for retesting total testosterone. How often you are tested should be based on your individual health needs, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required. Stop biotin supplements for at least 72 hours before testing, as biotin may interfere with test results.
