Insight into your testosterone level.
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and plays a role in muscle mass, energy, libido, and mood. A test gives insight into your level, with personal explanation from our doctors.
Also known as: male sex hormone, total testosterone
Personal assessment by our BIG-registered doctors
How Bloodworks works
Order online
Choose your package and preferred location
Receive your lab form
Within 24 hours by email, with appointment planner
Schedule your blood draw
Or choose a walk-in location
Blood draw
Takes just a few minutes
Receive your report
Securely, typically within 2 working days from our physicians
Background
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, produced mainly in the testes in men and in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. The hormone plays a role in the development and maintenance of muscle mass, bone density, libido, mood, and energy levels.
Testosterone levels gradually decline with age, on average around 1% per year from the age of thirty. In addition to age, sleep quality, physical activity, body composition, stress, and certain medical conditions can all influence the level. Total testosterone (expressed in nmol/L) is the standard measurement, sometimes supplemented with free testosterone and SHBG for a more complete picture.
In brief
Sex hormone
Produced mainly in the testes
Age-dependent
Declines gradually from age 30+
Diurnal rhythm
Highest level in the morning
Free vs. total
SHBG determines active fraction
This marker is also included in
Testing several values in a single draw takes one blood collection and gives a more complete picture. The choice is yours.
Common reasons to test
When can insight into your Testosterone be valuable?
Below are some situations in which measuring Testosterone can provide insight.
Insight into your hormone status
A single measurement gives a baseline for your testosterone level, comparable to other markers of your health.
With questions about energy or libido
Unexplained reduction in energy or libido is sometimes associated with hormonal changes, a test can provide information.
For sport and muscle recovery
Athletes wishing to monitor their hormonal status often include testosterone as part of a sports check.
At an older age
From the age of 40–50, testosterone production gradually declines. A test gives insight into where you stand relative to the age-related reference.
With questions about fertility
Testosterone is one of the hormones sometimes measured in the context of fertility questions, alongside LH and FSH.
For follow-up of a previous measurement
Those who have previously had a test can repeat it to track the value over time.
What your result means
Testosterone too low or too high: what does your result mean?
Testosterone is measured in nanomoles per litre (nmol/L). For accurate interpretation, we take into account the time of the blood draw (morning gives the highest value) and your age, as reference ranges are partly age-dependent.
A low value
A low testosterone level can have various causes, age-related decline, lifestyle factors such as sleep, weight, and physical activity, or underlying conditions of the pituitary gland, thyroid, or testes. Our doctor provides context for your level and can advise whether follow-up measurements (such as SHBG, free testosterone, or LH/FSH) are worthwhile.
A normal value
A testosterone level within the reference range gives a reassuring picture of the total concentration. When questions remain despite a normal total value, measuring free testosterone or SHBG can provide additional information about the biologically available fraction.
A high value
An elevated testosterone level is sometimes seen with the use of anabolic steroids or testosterone replacement therapy. In women, an elevated level can occur in the context of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). An elevated level without a clear explanation may be a reason for further investigation.
How we interpret your result
Our doctors interpret your testosterone level against the age-adjusted reference ranges of the laboratory and your personal context. You receive a report in plain language, as a starting point for your own insight or a conversation with your healthcare provider.
Related tests
Often combined with Testosterone.
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine Testosterone with a theme package or related markers.
+ €29 blood draw fee per orderFree from €225
Frequently asked questions
Everything you want to know
Do I need to fast for a testosterone test?
Fasting is not required, but we recommend having your blood drawn in the morning between 7 and 10 o'clock, testosterone levels are at their highest then and most suitable for interpretation.
What is the difference between total and free testosterone?
Total testosterone measures all testosterone in the blood, including the portion bound to proteins (such as SHBG). Free testosterone is the active, unbound fraction. When total values are normal but symptoms persist, free testosterone can provide additional information.
How often should I measure my testosterone?
A single measurement is sufficient for initial insight. Those wishing to track the value over time typically do so annually or after specific lifestyle changes.
Which factors influence my testosterone level?
Sleep, physical activity, body composition, stress, nutrition, and age all influence testosterone levels. Certain medications and medical conditions can also affect the value.
Is there also a test for women?
Yes, women also produce testosterone and testing can be worthwhile for questions about hormonal balance. Reference values for women are considerably lower than for men.
What does our doctor do with my result?
Our doctor assesses your value against the age-adjusted reference and provides you with a report with explanation. For values that stand out, you receive additional context.
What do I do with my result?
You will receive a PDF report with your value and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP, adjusting your lifestyle, or taking no action, remains entirely your choice.
Can I share my report with my GP?
Yes, the report is written in medical language and contains all relevant laboratory information.
In the Health Guide
Read more about this value
Ready for insight into your testosterone status?
You receive your testosterone level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 working days. No referral required.
Order Testosterone →Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine Testosterone with other markers via Bloodworks Select. The blood draw and collection fee is charged once per order, and is waived from €225.
40,-
+ €29 blood draw fee+ €29 blood draw fee per order