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Hormones

Total Testosterone Blood Test Results Guide

Total testosterone measures the combined amount of bound and free testosterone in the blood. As the primary androgen, testosterone may influence muscle mass, bone density, libido, mood, and energy levels in both men and women.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Your reference range
nmol/l
0,1 29 nmol/l
Reference ranges by group, in nmol/l
Male · 20–49 years 8,64–29 nmol/l
8,64 29
Male · 50 years and older 6,68–25,7 nmol/l
6,68 25,7
Female · 20–49 years 0,29–1,67 nmol/l
0,29 1,67
Female · 50 years and older 0,1–1,42 nmol/l
0,1 1,42
0,1 29 nmol/l

Bijsluiterwaarde: 5e-95e percentiel per subgroep (n = 136 mannen 20-49 jaar; 78 mannen 50 jaar en ouder; 89 vrouwen 20-49 jaar; 71 vrouwen 50 jaar en ouder), bij bloedafname tussen 06.30 en 13.00 uur en zonder gebruik van anticonceptiva. Testosteron kent een dagritme; een ochtendafname is de norm. Een hormoonreferentiewaarde is assay-specifiek; deze waarden gelden voor de Roche Elecsys-methode. Belangrijk bij vrouwen: de kwantificeringsgrens van deze immunoassay is 0,416 nmol/l, en beide onderste vrouwelijke grenzen (0,290 en 0,101 nmol/l) liggen daaronder. De tussenliggende precisie bij vrouwelijke concentraties is 8,2 % variatiecoefficient (cobas e 411, bij 0,406 nmol/l) tot 14,5 % (cobas e 601/e 602, bij 0,323 nmol/l), tegenover 1,8-3,0 % bij mannelijke concentraties. LC-MS/MS is de referentiemethode voor testosteron bij vrouwen; de bijsluiter adviseert zelf om een onverwacht verhoogde vrouwelijke uitslag te bevestigen met een extractiemethode of een gevalideerde LC-MS/MS-methode.

Source: Roche Diagnostics Reference population: Roche referentiecohort (Elecsys Testosterone II bijsluiter, studie CIM 000669)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

Total Testosterone: what this test measures

This test measures the total amount of testosterone in your blood, reported in nmol/l. It includes both testosterone bound to proteins like SHBG and albumin, and the small fraction of free, unbound testosterone available for immediate use.

Total Testosterone: why this value matters

Testosterone plays a fundamental role in many bodily functions for both sexes. Imbalances could potentially affect energy, mood, body composition, and reproductive health. Your healthcare provider can help evaluate your levels in the context of your overall health.

Total Testosterone: how to prepare

  1. Pause biotin

    Required

    Do you take a supplement with biotin (vitamin B8, common in hair, skin and nail supplements)? Stop it 72 hours before the draw. Biotin interferes with the measurement of these values.

  2. Have the draw in the morning

    Required

    These values vary over the day and peak in the morning. Have your blood drawn before 10:00, ideally between 07:00 and 09:00.

  • Water is always fine. Drink as usual beforehand, it makes the draw easier.
  • Take your usual medication, unless your own doctor told you otherwise.

Total Testosterone: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be considered when experiencing fatigue, mood changes, reduced libido, or changes in body composition. Some healthcare providers recommend morning testing, as testosterone levels tend to be highest in the early hours of the day.

Total Testosterone: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Some people with low testosterone may experience persistent fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, low mood, decreased libido, or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms could also have other causes, so consult your healthcare provider.

High Levels

Some people with elevated testosterone may experience acne, oily skin, mood swings, or increased aggression. In women, high testosterone could potentially be associated with irregular periods, excess hair growth, or hormonal imbalance conditions.

Total Testosterone: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low testosterone may cause fatigue, decreased libido, and muscle loss. Consider lifestyle changes (sleep, exercise, weight loss) and consultation with an endocrinologist for possible testosterone replacement.

If High

Elevated testosterone may indicate steroid use, adrenal tumors, or testicular tumors. Consult with an endocrinologist for evaluation.

Female

If Low

Low testosterone in women may cause decreased libido and energy. Consider lifestyle optimization and consultation with an endocrinologist if symptomatic.

If High

High testosterone may indicate PCOS, adrenal disorders, or ovarian tumors. Consider evaluation for PCOS, especially if experiencing irregular periods or hirsutism.

Total Testosterone: lifestyle and this value

Regular resistance training, adequate sleep, stress management, and a balanced diet with sufficient zinc and vitamin D may support healthy testosterone levels. Limiting alcohol consumption could also be beneficial. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Total Testosterone: frequently asked questions

What is the difference between total and free testosterone?

Total testosterone includes all testosterone in the blood, both bound to proteins and free. Free testosterone is the small unbound portion that your body can actively use. Both measurements together may provide a more complete picture of your hormonal status.

Why should testosterone be tested in the morning?

Testosterone levels typically follow a circadian rhythm and tend to be highest in the morning, gradually declining throughout the day. Morning testing may provide the most consistent and reliable baseline measurement for comparison purposes.

Can lifestyle changes affect testosterone levels?

Research suggests that regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress reduction, and maintaining a healthy weight may support healthy testosterone levels. However, individual results can vary. Discuss any concerns or planned changes with your healthcare provider.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

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Total Testosterone

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