Testosterone Testing

What is Testosterone?

In short, testosterone is the main sex hormone in males. During a boy’s puberty, testosterone causes the growth of body hair, muscle development, and deepening of the voice to name a few symptoms. In adult men, it controls sex drive, maintains muscle mass, and helps to make sperm. Women also have testosterone in their bodies, but in much smaller amounts.

What is a Testosterone Level Test?

This test measures the levels of testosterone in your blood. Most of the testosterone in the blood is attached to proteins. Testosterone that is not attached to a protein is called free testosterone.
There are two main types of testosterone tests:

Total testosterone, which measures both attached and free testosterone.
Free testosterone, which measures just free testosterone. Free testosterone can give more information about certain medical conditions.

Testosterone levels that are too low (low T) or too high (high T) can cause health problems in both men and women of all ages.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone in men include

Low sex drive
Impotence or difficulty getting an erection
Development of breast tissue
Reproduction or fertility problems
Hair loss
Loss of muscle mass

Low testosterone levels in men are normal, but extremely low levels may indicate Addison Disease, a disorder of the pituitary gland

Symptoms of High Testosterone in men include

Acne
Aggressive behavior
Excessive body hair
Headaches
Heart or liver problems
High blood pressure
High sex drive
Increased appetite

Hight testosterone levels in men can mean a tumor in the testicles or adrenal glands. Adrenal glands help to control the heart rate, blood pressure, and other bodily functions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to know about my test results?

Men who are diagnosed with low T levels may benefit from testosterone supplements, as prescribed by their health care provider. Testosterone supplements are not recommended for men with normal T levels. There is no proof they provide any benefits, and in fact they may be harmful to healthy men.

Do women have testosterone?

Yes, women have testosterone but in much smaller quantities.

How do I prepare for the testosterone test?

You do not need any preparations for a testosterone test