Total Testosterone Test: What It Shows and What It Does Not
Quick answer: A total testosterone test measures all testosterone in your blood. Men and women both make it. Providers look at it for symptoms of low levels in men and symptoms of high levels in women, and it is read with other tests.
About this test
Total testosterone includes testosterone bound to proteins and the free part. It is the most common testosterone test. Free testosterone, a separate test, measures only the unattached form.
Why is it ordered?
- In men, symptoms that can go along with low testosterone, such as low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, muscle loss or fatigue.
- In women, symptoms that can go along with high testosterone, such as excess facial or body hair, acne, irregular periods or male pattern hair loss.
- Looking at fertility questions.
- Following hormone treatment.
What results may show
- In men, low levels can relate to testicular, pituitary, liver or kidney conditions, and high levels to steroid use, tumors or adrenal conditions.
- In women, high levels can relate to polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian or adrenal conditions or pituitary conditions.
- Levels normally decline with age.
What this test may not show
- It cannot diagnose a condition by itself.
- Levels vary through the day and are highest in the morning, so timing matters.
- Total testosterone does not show how much is free. A free testosterone test or SHBG may be needed.
- An abnormal result does not always mean treatment is needed.
How to prepare
- A morning draw is preferred, often between 7 and 10 AM.
- Fasting may be asked for. Follow the instruction given when you order.
- Tell your provider about medicines. Do not stop one without asking.
Where you can get this test
| Option | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Health Panel, Man | $149 | CBC, CMP, lipid panel, total testosterone, A1c, hs-CRP, urinalysis, TSH |
| Female Hormone Panel | $189 | FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, TSH, testosterone |
| Hair Loss Panel | $199 | CBC, ferritin, iron and TIBC, TSH, free T4, vitamin D, total testosterone, DHEA-S |
A doctor’s visit is not required to order. Order online, then visit our Buffalo Grove or Lake Zurich location for the sample. Review results with your own healthcare provider.
Related tests
- DHEA-S: DHEA-S is a hormone made mostly by the adrenal glands that the body uses to make testosterone and estrogen.
- TSH: TSH is the hormone your pituitary gland makes to tell your thyroid how much hormone to produce.
- Browse the full Lab Test Library
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between total and free testosterone?
Total includes bound and free testosterone. Free is only the unattached part.
Why is a morning draw preferred?
Levels are usually highest in the morning.
Do women get tested for testosterone?
Yes, mostly when symptoms such as extra hair growth, acne or irregular periods suggest high levels.
Can testosterone alone diagnose a problem?
No. It is read with symptoms and other tests.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Rodion Levin, FNP-C, Founder and Medical Director. This page is for general education. It does not diagnose a condition or replace advice from your healthcare provider.
