Measure testosterone with a testosterone test

A testosterone test measures the levels of testosterone in your blood and helps determine if they fall within a normal range. This test is especially useful for individuals experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue, low libido, mood changes, or difficulty building muscle.

How Testosterone Testing Works

1. Blood Sample Collection: A testosterone test typically requires a blood sample. Blood is usually drawn from a vein in your arm, often in the morning when testosterone levels are at their highest.

2. Types of Testosterone Tested:

   • Total Testosterone: Measures the total amount of testosterone in the blood, including both bound and free testosterone.
   • Free Testosterone: Tests the amount of testosterone not bound to proteins, which is more readily available for use by the body.

3. Testing Process:

   • The blood sample is analyzed in a laboratory, and results are generally available within a few days.
   • Normal testosterone levels vary by age, sex, and individual factors, but typical ranges are between 300-1,000 ng/dL for men and 15-70 ng/dL for women.

Preparing for the Test

• Timing: Aim to take the test between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., as testosterone levels peak in the morning.
• Fasting: Your doctor may recommend fasting or avoiding certain medications beforehand to ensure accurate results.
• Consistency: If you’re monitoring testosterone over time, try to take the test under similar conditions (e.g., same time of day and similar activities).

Understanding the Results

After the test, your healthcare provider will interpret the results and consider other factors, such as age, overall health, and symptoms, before making recommendations. Low levels may indicate testosterone deficiency, while high levels could result from supplements, certain medications, or other health conditions.

Next Steps

If your testosterone levels are outside the normal range, your doctor may discuss options such as lifestyle adjustments, supplements, or, in some cases, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to help restore balance.