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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Hormones

Total Testosterone

Total testosterone measures the overall testosterone level in your blood. In older adults, testosterone levels tend to decline gradually, and monitoring may help provide context for changes in energy, mood, or physical well-being. Results should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Reference Ranges

Male
nmol/l
Low 8.64 Normal 29 High
Female
nmol/l
Low 0.29 Normal 1.67 High

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.

What It 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.

Why It 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.

When to Test

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.

Symptoms

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.

Recommendations

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.

Lifestyle Tips

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.

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.