A Comprehensive Guide To Testing Testosterone Levels: Exploring The Different Methods

How to Get Your Testosterone Levels Tested

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which test is most appropriate for each individual case. In addition to the total testosterone test, there are other tests that can provide more detailed information about an individual’s testosterone levels. These include tests for free testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Free testosterone is the amount of testosterone that is not bound to proteins and is available for use by the body.

There are different forms of testosterone in your blood that may be measured to help diagnose certain health problems. 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.

Testosterone supports muscle mass, libido, energy levels, mood, focus, sleep quality, bone density, metabolic health, and more, says Houman. So, having lower-than-optimal testosterone levels can lead to a range of physical, mental, and emotional side effects, he says. Research suggests that low testosterone replacement therapy tucson levels may be more common among young men today compared to previous decades. Multiple large-scale studies have shown that average testosterone levels in men, including adolescents and young adults, have been on the decline over the past few decades, according to Houman.

These kits let you collect a blood sample from a finger prick and mail it to a lab. While convenient, at-home kits may be less precise than clinical tests. This daily variation in testosterone levels is natural and should be taken into consideration when getting tested. If you are concerned about your testosterone levels and want to get them tested, it is generally recommended to do so in the morning, within the first few hours after waking up. This will give you the most accurate representation of your testosterone levels at their highest point. Hypogonadism can affect males, females, and people who are intersex.

Typically, fasting is not necessary before getting your testosterone levels checked. However, it is always best to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the testing facility. They may recommend fasting if additional tests, such as cholesterol or glucose levels, are being done at the same time. In general, it’s recommended to have your testosterone levels checked at least once a year if you’re over 40 and have no symptoms or underlying health conditions. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have underlying health conditions, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing, such as every six months. While there are test kits available that claim to measure testosterone levels at home, their accuracy and reliability are questionable. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate assessment of your hormone levels.

However, being able to get to a doctor’s office to get a test is challenging due to long waiting lists for appointments. Symptoms of high testosterone are less common but can include acne, hair loss, or even aggression. If testosterone is high, women might also notice unusual hair growth or irregular menstrual cycles.

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. 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. Even if the root of the problem is in the testicles, other treatments might be a better first step for you than TRT.

PWNHealth and its affiliates review your purchase to ensure it is medically appropriate before submitting the test order for processing. PWNHealth also reviews your test results and will contact you directly if they require prompt attention. Included in each purchase is the option to discuss your test results with an independent physician; however, you are also encouraged to speak with your primary healthcare provider. Dr. Jayadevan adds that he sees guys every week who got a testosterone gel or injections from the internet. An abnormal testosterone test result doesn’t guarantee that you have a medical condition. Other factors, like certain medications and existing health conditions, can affect your test results. High testosterone levels could indicate a tumor in your adrenal glands or testicles.