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.
Interpreted by BIG-registered doctors
Achtergrond
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 het kort
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
Veelvoorkomende redenen om te meten
Hieronder enkele situaties waarin een meting van Testosterone inzicht kan bieden.
A single measurement gives a baseline for your testosterone level, comparable to other markers of your health.
Unexplained reduction in energy or libido is sometimes associated with hormonal changes, a test can provide information.
Athletes wishing to monitor their hormonal status often include testosterone as part of a sports check.
From the age of 40–50, testosterone production gradually declines. A test gives insight into where you stand relative to the age-related reference.
Testosterone is one of the hormones sometimes measured in the context of fertility questions, alongside LH and FSH.
Those who have previously had a test can repeat it to track the value over time.
Wat betekent uw uitslag
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 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 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.
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.
Hoe wij uw uitslag interpreteren
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
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine Testosterone with a theme package or related markers.
Veelgestelde vragen
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.
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.
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.
Sleep, physical activity, body composition, stress, nutrition, and age all influence testosterone levels. Certain medications and medical conditions can also affect the value.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, the report is written in medical language and contains all relevant laboratory information.
In the Health Guide
For €79 you receive your testosterone level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 business days. No referral required.
Order Testosterone for €79 →Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine Testosterone with other markers via Bloodworks Select. Blood draw costs are waived from €225.
Customer service
Available on weekdays from 9:00 – 17:00
