What is a testosterone levels test?A testosterone levels test measures the amount of testosterone in a sample of your blood. Testosterone is known as a "male" sex hormone, but females have testosterone in smaller amounts. Show
Testosterone is made by:
During male puberty, testosterone causes body hair, muscle growth, and a deepening voice. In adult life, it controls sex drive, maintains muscle mass, and helps make sperm. In females, testosterone is important for the growth of bones and muscles, and healthy organs. There are different forms of testosterone in your blood that may be measured to help diagnose certain health problems. Most of your testosterone is attached to proteins. The proteins prevent your tissues from using the testosterone right away, which helps control the amount of "active" testosterone in your body. Testosterone that's not attached to proteins is called free testosterone. Free testosterone acts on your tissues. Three types of blood tests measure these different forms of testosterone:
Other names: serum testosterone, total testosterone, free testosterone, bioavailable testosterone What is it used for?A testosterone levels test may be used with other tests to help:
Testosterone testing is also used to monitor your health if you:
Why do I need a testosterone levels test?You may need this test if you have symptoms of abnormal testosterone levels. For males who have gone through puberty, the test is mostly used for symptoms of low T levels (testosterone levels which are too low). Testosterone levels tend to decrease with age. But other health issues may also cause low T, such as thyroid problems, long-lasting illness, or problems with the testicles. The symptoms of low T may include:
For females, the test is mostly used for symptoms of high T levels, such as:
What happens during a testosterone levels test?A blood sample for a testosterone test should be taken in the morning between 7 and 10. During these hours, your testosterone levels are typically the highest. A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes. Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?In certain cases, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Ask your provider how you should prepare for a testosterone levels test. Are there any risks to the test?There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly. What do the results mean?Your test results may mean different things depending on which test was done, your age, your symptoms, the results of other tests, and other conditions you may have. So, it's best ask your provider to explain your test results. A testosterone level test alone can't diagnose any health conditions, but abnormal results with symptoms may be a sign of a health problem.
If your results are not normal, it doesn't always mean you have a medical condition that needs treatment. It's normal for testosterone levels to decrease with age. And certain medicines can affect your results. If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. Is there anything else I need to know about a testosterone levels test?At-home test kits for checking your testosterone levels are available without a prescription. The kits provide everything you need to collect a blood or saliva (spit) sample to send to a lab for testing. Talk with your provider if you think you need to be tested. If you do a home test, share the results with your provider. References
How much does it cost to get your testosterone levels checked?If you opt for an at-home test, a singular testosterone test may cost between $50 and $70. Some companies like LetsGetChecked and Everlywell offer full hormone tests that measure testosterone, as well as other hormones like cortisol and DHEA. But these tests are more expensive and can range from $130 to $200.
How can I get my testosterone levels checked?A blood sample for a testosterone test should be taken in the morning between 7 and 10. During these hours, your testosterone levels are typically the highest. A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle.
What doctor can check your testosterone?You can make an appointment with your primary care doctor or seek the help of a urologist, who specializes in male sex organs. If fertility is an issue, you can talk to a reproductive endocrinologist. They treat hormone imbalances in both men and women.
Can I test my testosterone myself?A person can test their testosterone levels using an at-home test that they can purchase online. Many use a saliva sample, but some involve a blood or urine sample. Testing companies usually provide results within a few days.
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