Testing Testosterone
Testosterone is a primary androgenic sex hormone essential for both men and women, playing a key role in various bodily functions. While women produce significantly less testosterone than men, they still synthesise three to four times more testosterone than oestrogen.
When testosterone levels are low, it can lead to issues such as low energy, reduced libido, poor metabolic health, infertility, and reduced muscle mass. Also, high testosterone in women can cause voice deepening, excessive hair growth, and acne.
In women, the adrenal glands are the main source of testosterone, although the ovary also produces smaller amounts.
In men, testosterone is produced in the testes, stimulated by luteinising hormone released by the pituitary gland.
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Total testosterone refers to the overall amount of testosterone circulating in the bloodstream. However, most of this is bound to proteins like albumin and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), making it inactive. The remaining testosterone, known as free testosterone, is unbound and biologically active. Measuring free testosterone provides a more accurate assessment of the body’s testosterone levels than total testosterone alone.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENTTestosterone levels naturally decline after the age of 30 in both men and women. However, around one in four men over forty experience levels that are considered low for their age. Contributing factors include:
While elevated testosterone is rarely problematic in men, it can lead to significant issues in women. The primary causes of high testosterone levels in women include polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and testosterone replacement therapy. Symptoms of elevated testosterone in women include:
| (nmol/L)Total levels of testosterone | Meaning |
|---|---|
|
>12 (or>14 if diabetic /prediabetic ) |
Normal |
|
8- 12 (or 8- 14 if pre-diabetic) |
Borderline low testosterone- may be treated through testosterone replacement therapy. |
|
<8 |
Very low testosterone levels- likely to be treated through testosterone replacement therapy |
| (nmol/L) Total levels of testosterone | Meaning |
|---|---|
|
>1.8 |
high |
|
0.3-1.8 |
normal |
|
0.3 |
low |
A testosterone blood test assesses the total amount of testosterone in your blood. If you experience symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as those mentioned above, checking your testosterone levels can help identify potential issues and guide appropriate treatment.
If you’re experiencing symptoms relating to high or low levels of testosterone, don’t hesitate to book a testosterone blood test. At Health Screening Clinic, we provide quick, accurate testosterone blood tests alongside expert advice tailored to your results. Take control of your health by scheduling your appointment today.
Testosterone levels naturally peak in the morning, so it is recommended to take the test between 6am and 10 am for the most accurate test.
Yes, this test is appropriate for both men and women. Testosterone plays a vital role in women’s libido, energy, fertility, metabolic health and muscle mass, and women produce three to four times more testosterone than oestrogen.
Yes, this test is suitable for monitoring levels of testosterone during TRT. However, avoid taking samples from fingers that have recently handled testosterone-based products (e.g., tablets, gels, patches, or pessaries) without gloves, as residue can remain on the skin and may lead to falsely elevated readings.