Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation is required.
- Turnaround: 3-6 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures total testosterone, the circulating hormone level in the blood, using LC/MS-MS (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry) methodology. This method is a highly sensitive and accurate way to quantify testosterone levels. The test is specifically designed for women and hypogonadal males.
Testosterone plays a role in the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues and secondary sexual characteristics, including muscle and bone mass. In women, testosterone contributes to bone and muscle mass, and may play a role in libido and sexual function. This test reports total testosterone only, it does not separately measure free testosterone.
Benefits
- Measures total testosterone using a highly sensitive LC/MS-MS method.
- Helps evaluate symptoms linked to high or low testosterone in women.
- Helps evaluate symptoms of low testosterone in hypogonadal males.
- Uses a simple blood sample with no special preparation required.
- Supports discussions with your healthcare provider about hormonal balance.
Who Is This Test For?
- Women with symptoms of high testosterone, such as excessive hair growth or acne.
- Women with irregular or absent periods who want more information.
- Women with symptoms of low testosterone, such as decreased sex drive or fatigue.
- Hypogonadal males with symptoms of low testosterone, such as decreased muscle mass.
- Hypogonadal males experiencing erectile dysfunction or persistent fatigue.
- Individuals working with a healthcare provider to evaluate hormone-related symptoms.
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, a circulating hormone, in the blood of women and hypogonadal males using LC/MS-MS methodology. It helps a healthcare provider evaluate whether testosterone levels may be contributing to symptoms related to hormonal imbalance. This test does not diagnose any condition on its own and reflects total testosterone only, not free testosterone.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
Women who notice symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne, irregular periods, decreased sex drive, fatigue, or muscle weakness may benefit from this test. Hypogonadal males experiencing decreased muscle mass, decreased sex drive, or erectile dysfunction may also benefit. This test is intended for these specific groups.
3. When should I order this test?
You might consider this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, fatigue, depression, hot flashes, night sweats, irregular or absent periods, or osteoporosis or bone fractures. These symptoms may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider alongside this test.
4. How does this test differ from other hormone tests?
This test measures total testosterone specifically, using LC/MS-MS methodology, and is intended for women and hypogonadal males. It does not measure free testosterone, other androgens, or any hormone-binding proteins. Because it reports total testosterone rather than free testosterone, results should not be treated as interchangeable with a free testosterone test.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required for this test.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 3-6 days. This may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your total testosterone result depends on factors such as your sex, symptoms, medical history, and the specific laboratory methodology used. Because this test reports total testosterone only, results are often considered alongside your clinical picture and, when relevant, other laboratory findings. One abnormal result does not automatically confirm a hormonal condition, and one normal result does not 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 what the result means in the context of your health and whether further evaluation may be considered. This test result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no set schedule for repeat testing. Talk with your healthcare provider about whether and when retesting makes sense for your situation, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required.
