Testosterone Test

Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testes in males and by the ovaries in females, (although females typically have much lower levels of testosterone than males), according to the Cleveland Clinic. A testosterone test is a blood test that measures the levels of testosterone in the blood.

The test is used to diagnose and monitor conditions that affect testosterone levels, such as hypogonadism (low testosterone), infertility, erectile dysfunction, and certain types of cancer. It may also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of testosterone replacement therapy.

How is testosterone testing done?

A testosterone test is a simple blood test that is usually done in a healthcare provider's office or laboratory. During this test, a healthcare professional or lab technician will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm or hand, using a needle. The blood sample will then be sent to the laboratory for screening.

There is no preparation needed for a testosterone test, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, if you are getting your prostate-specific antigen (commonly known as “PSA”) checked along with other blood tests, you may need to fast from eating or drinking anything except water for several hours before the test. Your doctor can give you specific instructions on the preparation when you schedule your test.

When should I get my testosterone levels checked?

The decision to check your testosterone levels should be based on your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors according to the Cleveland Clinic. Here are some situations where getting a testosterone test might be appropriate, according to the Cleveland Clinic:

• You are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, such as decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, decreased muscle mass, or mood changes.
• You have risk factors for low testosterone, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, or chronic opioid use.
• You are undergoing treatment for low testosterone or have previously been diagnosed with low testosterone and need to monitor your levels.
• You are experiencing symptoms of high testosterone, such as acne, excessive body hair growth, or irregular menstrual periods.
• You are undergoing fertility testing and need to evaluate your hormone levels.

Understanding your testosterone test results

The normal range of total testosterone levels in adult men is typically between 300-1000 ng/dL (10.4-34.7 nmol/L), according to the NLM. However, it's important to note that "normal" levels can vary depending on age, sex, and other factors. For example, older men may have lower testosterone levels than younger men, and women typically have lower levels than men.

If your testosterone levels are outside of the normal range, your healthcare provider will likely interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Can a testosterone test be wrong?

Testosterone levels can fluctuate throughout the day and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including age, sex, time of day, and medications, according to the NLM. Therefore, it's important to discuss your test results, as well as any symptoms and medical history with your healthcare provider to determine if additional testing is needed.

Finding a testosterone test

Testosterone testing can be found at most healthcare facilities like walk-in clinics, urgent care clinics, and walk-in laboratories. If you need help finding a doctor or lab test, you can use Solv’s directory to find the closest one to you.

Can I do a testosterone test at home?

There are at-home testosterone tests available for purchase online or from a drug store. It is important to note that while at-home tests may be convenient, they may not be as accurate as tests performed in a healthcare setting, notes the NLM.

Additionally,the NLM notes that if you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, you should be tested in a healthcare setting.

Cost of a testosterone test

The average cost of testosterone testing in the USA can vary widely depending on the type of test, location, and healthcare provider. Additionally, health insurance coverage can also play a role in the cost of testing. Some insurance plans cover the cost of preventive screenings and tests, while others may require a copay or coinsurance.

The average range of PSA testing in the US is between $81 and $390, according to FindLabTest.com.

Signs of low testosterone

Low testosterone (also known as hypogonadism) can have a range of symptoms, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Some common signs of low testosterone in men may include:

• Decreased sex drive or libido
• Erectile dysfunction or difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Decreased muscle mass or strength
• Increased body fat or weight gain
• Mood changes, including depression, irritability, or difficulty concentrating
• Decreased bone density or osteoporosis
• Decreased body hair growth or thinning of facial and body hair
• Breast tissue growth or tenderness (known as gynecomastia)

It's important to note that some of these symptoms can be caused by other factors or medical conditions, and low testosterone is not always the cause. Therefore, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider, who can perform a physical examination and order a testosterone test to determine if low testosterone is the cause.