Do you have questions about your reproductive health? Choose to measure the level of testosterone in your blood to determine if your level is normal, high, or low for your age.
What
In males, testosterone is a key sex hormone produced in the testes (testicles) and may affect sex drive, fertility, muscle mass, and bone health.
Our Testosterone Test measures the level of testosterone in the blood.
How
Type of sample to be collected:
Blood (venipuncture—a needle is used to draw blood from a vein)
About the Test
The Testosterone Test measures the level of testosterone in your blood. In men, testosterone is the hormone that regulates sex drive, builds bone mass, regulates body fat distribution, maintains muscle mass and strength, and is essential for the sperm production. Low levels of testosterone are associated with aging and common medical conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Abnormal levels of testosterone in the blood may cause changes in health and physical appearance. If your results are not within normal range, it is important to consult with your physician to discuss next steps.
What’s Tested
Testosterone is an androgen steroid hormone and the principal male sex hormone. Testosterone plays a key role in development of the male reproductive system and promotes secondary sexual characteristics such as facial and chest hair and upper body muscular build. It is primarily secreted from the testes. The Testosterone Test measures the level of testosterone in your blood to determine if your level is normal, high, or low for your age.
A testosterone level that is lower or higher than normal can affect the body in many ways. In men, low testosterone levels are more common than high levels. Some men can have abnormal testosterone levels for years without knowing.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of low testosterone in men can include:
Decrease in sex drive
Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
Decrease in muscle mass
Bone weakness
Breast tissue development
Hair loss
Difficulty sleeping
Difficulty with memory and concentration
Decrease in testicle size
Decrease in semen production that can lead to fertility problems
Symptoms of high testosterone in men can include:
Elevated blood pressure
Heart or liver problems
Headaches
Aggressive behavior
Excessive body hair growth
Acne
Prostate enlargement
Decrease in sperm production
Insomnia
Preparing for your test
Although fasting is not required, your healthcare provider may recommend not eating or drinking anything except water after midnight, the day before your test. Because testosterone levels are usually highest in the morning, it is recommended that you have your sample collected early in the day.
