% Free Testosterone Lab Results explained

Free Testosterone vs Total Testosterone Levels

The other test is called the free testosterone test, and it measures the concentration of only free testosterone. In some cases, imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI may be employed, particularly if a pituitary tumor or testicular abnormality is suspected. These can complement hormonal testing to provide a comprehensive picture of an individual’s health.

Therefore, we conducted this study to address some of these limitations and to investigate whether serum testosterone levels vary according to the presence of nephrolithiasis. 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. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of low or high testosterone is essential for understanding our hormonal balance and overall well-being.

However, abnormal levels of the hormone can be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. This underscores the importance of maintaining testosterone within optimal levels for overall cardiovascular health. The hormone’s role in women’s health extends to the regulation of menstrual cycles and fertility.

It’s important to note that these ranges can differ slightly between laboratories due to variations in testing techniques. You may need this test to find out whether a low sex drive is caused by a low level of testosterone. In recent years, healthcare providers have used testosterone therapy to treat both men and women with low sex drives.

By measuring free testosterone, which represents the hormone available for use in the body, healthcare professionals gain valuable insights into hormonal status. If your free testosterone levels are below the normal range, it may indicate a condition called hypogonadism, which is characterized by inadequate testosterone production. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, decreased muscle mass, reduced libido, and mood changes. Low free testosterone levels can also be caused by certain medical conditions, medications, or lifestyle factors. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and discuss appropriate treatment options. Free testosterone is an important hormone that plays a key role in male development and overall health.

You appear to have higher than normal testosterone levels, please contact us for further investigation. Normally, it is first suggested to try natural means to boost your testosterone levels. If your test results show that you have low or high testosterone levels, then another test might be performed to confirm the issue. The need to repeat the test occurs because testosterone levels can fluctuate from day to day due to multiple reasons like medication, etc. In men, testosterone is produced by testicles, while in women, it is produced by ovaries.

However, if you have concerns about your testosterone levels, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. If the results of a free testosterone blood test fall below the normal range, it may indicate a hormone deficiency or imbalance. Symptoms of low free testosterone levels can include fatigue, reduced muscle mass, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, and decreased bone density. Testosterone imbalance can be attributed to a variety of factors, including natural aging, lifestyle choices, medical conditions, medications, genetic factors, and environmental exposures.

This test measures the amount of unattached, or “free,” testosterone in your blood. So if you just focus on your free testosterone numbers, you’re discounting the vast majority of the testosterone in your body. An increase in the Human Growth Hormone (HGH) concentration directly causes an increase in testosterone secretion [16]. Testosterone deficiency has been detected in 10% – 40% of adult males globally, with age being the most reliable indicator. Hone-affiliated medical practices are natural testosterone boosters bad for you independently owned and operated by licensed physicians who provide services using the Hone telehealth platform. For more information about the relationship between Hone and the medical practices, click here.

Hone’s hormone assessment paints a full picture of what’s going on with your free testosterone and total testosterone. The test also measures several biomarkers, including SHBG, estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and of course, both free and total T. Having too little free testosterone can lead to symptoms of low T like fatigue, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and depression (3). Total T is the total amount of testosterone, measured in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) of blood, in your body. On the other hand, free testosterone is the type of testosterone your body uses; it’s vital to your health. “You don’t need to wait until something feels ‘off’ to check in with a doctor,” says Houman.