Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone produced in the gonads, which means the sex organs. Other than the gonads, testosterone is also produced in the adrenal glands, which initially produce dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and then get converted to testosterone.

Testosterone is the main androgen that stimulates the development of secondary male characteristics.

What Is Testosterone Test?

A testosterone test is used to measure the levels of testosterone in the body. Testosterone is the hormone produced in people assigned to males at birth (AMAB). However, people assigned female at birth (AFAB) also produce testosterone in their bodies.

A testosterone test measures the levels of this hormone because testosterone levels that are too low or too high can cause health problems regardless of biological sex.

What Is Testosterone Test Used For?

Testosterone in the body may exist in the free state or bound form (attached to proteins). Free (not attached to proteins) testosterone is easier for your body to use. A testosterone test is used to measure the following:

• Total testosterone (both free and attached testosterone).
• Free testosterone, which shows free testosterone only.

When Should You Get A Testosterone Test?

For someone who has been assigned male at birth (AMAB), a healthcare provider usually orders testosterone tests if they have symptoms of low testosterone or any other medical conditions that indicate low testosterone levels in the body, such as:

• Development of breast tissue.
• Erectile dysfunction
• Hair loss
• Infertility
• Low muscle mass
• Low sex drive

A testosterone test can be performed for someone who has been assigned female at the birth if following symptoms are present:

• Acne
• Excess facial or body hair
• Irregular periods
• Voice deepening
• Weight gain

Testosterone Test Normal Range

Normal Values

In people who are AMAB, normal testosterone levels are between 300 and 750 nanograms per deciliter.

Interpretation

A testosterone test measures the testosterone levels in the body. The meaning of the results varies by age and sex.

• In AMAB:
• Low testosterone may indicate problems with the pituitary gland, such as a pituitary tumor.
• High testosterone levels may indicate a tumor in the adrenal glands or the testicles.

• In male children:
• Low testosterone levels may point to problems with the testes. Undescended testicles or Klinefelter syndrome may be the cause.
• High testosterone levels may show that there is a tumor in the adrenal glands or testicles.

• In people AFAB:
• Low testosterone levels may indicate a pituitary gland disorder called Addison's disease.
• High testosterone levels may indicate ovarian cancer or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

How Is A Testosterone Test Conducted?

In a testosterone test, you will have to uncover your arm so that blood can be withdrawn from the vein. It is conducted like any other blood test. The healthcare provider will keep the blood in a vial or a test tube. You might feel little to no pain. Make sure to press the wound to prevent bleeding from the puncture site.

What Are The Risks Of Testosterone Test?

As such, there are no risks associated with a testosterone test. However, you can have pain at the puncture site. It might be accompanied by a bruise sometimes. You can apply a cold compress at the site to lower pain and inflammation.

In rare cases, when blood is withdrawn, you might experience:

• Dizziness
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection at the puncture site

How Long Does It Take To Get The Result Of The Testosterone Test?

Generally, it does not take too long for the testosterone results to come. It might take one to two days from blood withdrawal for the results to come.