Why do I need a testosterone test?

There are many men who wonder why they need a testosterone test if they don't feel that bad. If you are one of them, keep reading. The reality is that From a certain age, checking and taking care of our hormonal levels should be a priority..

As you probably already know, starting around the age of 35-39, blood testosterone levels begin to decline. Testosterone levels that are too low can put our health at risk, causing complications in our daily lives and in our sexual life..

Why do I need a testosterone test?

Numerous studies have shown that all men, regardless of age, should be concerned about their testosterone levels. Not in vain, this is the hormone that makes us who we are. This is the hormone that allows us to enjoy sex, sport and, ultimately, our days as men.

We are also aware that you may need some more reasons to go to the doctor and have your testosterone tests done. Therefore, we are going to list the reasons why you should take a testosterone test. Symptoms that, together or separately, should set off alarm bells:

• If you feel a little or no sexual desire, or you have the low libido you need to check your testosterone levels.
• Do you experience difficulties in getting and/or maintaining an erection? Then you should take the testosterone test.
• If you notice that Your pectorals are becoming less pectoral every day and more like female breasts., you need to take a hormonal test.
• Do you notice your weak bones for some time now? It wouldn't hurt to check your testosterone levels.
• If you have recently felt that you get tired quickly when doing physical activity, you should undergo testing.

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What does a testosterone test consist of?

The testosterone test is, simply put, a blood test with hormonal profile included, which measures the total amount of the male hormone testosterone in the blood.

Much of testosterone is bound to a protein called sex hormone binding globulin. However, there is also a fraction of testosterone that remains free and is biologically active, which can be measured by a specific analysis.

During the subsequent consultation, the doctor will read these results and assess whether the testosterone levels, as well as the rest of the relevant parameters, are within normal ranges or not.

It may interest you: free testosterone normal values ​​pg/ml.

How is the test performed?

The test is performed by drawing a blood sample from a vein, preferably between 7 am and 10 am on an empty stomach, when testosterone levels are usually at their highest. If the results are lower than expected, the test may need to be repeated to confirm them.

Preparation for analysis

If you are taking certain medications that may interfere with the test results, your doctor may tell you to temporarily stop taking them.

Some medications that can alter the results of the analysis are:

• Testosterone replacement therapy (injectable, gel, patches, etc.).
• Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin.
• Anabolic steroids.
• Barbiturates.
• Corticosteroids (prednisone, dexamethasone).
• Opioids (morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl).
• Ketoconazole (used to treat fungal infections).
• Antiandrogens (used in treatments for prostate cancer or conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia).
• Statins (may reduce testosterone production by affecting cholesterol synthesis).

If you are taking any of these drugs, it is important to inform your doctor before taking the test to avoid misinterpretation of the results.

What parameters are measured in testosterone analysis?

In our analysis we will measure more than thirty parameters, the most relevant being:

Total Testosterone

This is the total amount of testosterone present in the blood, including that which is bound to proteins (SHBG and albumin) and that which is circulating freely. This value provides an overview of testosterone levels in the body and is a key indicator for assessing male hormonal health.

free testosterone

It represents the fraction of testosterone that is not bound to proteins and is therefore available to exert its effects in the body. It is the most biologically active type of testosterone and regulates functions such as protein synthesis, libido and sperm production.

Prolactin

It is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates various functions in the body. Elevated levels of prolactin can inhibit testosterone production and affect sexual and reproductive function.

17 Beta-Estradiol

It is the most active form of estrogen in both men and women. Although estradiol levels in men are much lower than in women, it plays a key role in regulating bone metabolism, cardiovascular function, and the conversion of testosterone to estrogen. Elevated levels may be associated with gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men) and decreased libido.

5. Basal FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

These two hormones, produced by the pituitary gland, regulate the production of testosterone in the testicles:

• FSH hormone: It is crucial for spermatogenesis (sperm production) and plays a role in male fertility. Abnormal levels may indicate testicular dysfunction.
• LH hormone: Stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. Low levels may be related to testicular failure or pituitary dysfunction.

Reasons to perform testosterone analysis

Testosterone testing is performed to evaluate possible hormonal imbalances in men who present symptoms related to abnormal androgen production.

Since testosterone is produced primarily by the testicles, measuring it can detect alterations in their function. This analysis is useful for diagnosing or monitoring conditions such as:

• Abnormal pubertal development: It is used in children and adolescents to identify cases of early or delayed puberty.
• Fertility problems: A low level of testosterone may be associated with a decrease in sperm production.
• Sexual difficulties: It is analyzed in cases of erectile dysfunction or decreased sexual desire.
• Bone health: Testosterone deficiency can contribute to bone density loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis in men.

Reference values ​​and meaning of results

normal levels

Normal testosterone values ​​may vary between laboratories, but are generally within the following parameters:

• Men: 300 – 1,000 ng/dL (10 – 35 nmol/L)

Anomalous Levels

Low testosterone levels can be related to a variety of medical conditions, aging, or certain types of treatments. The effects of low levels can include decreased sex drive, loss of muscle mass, fatigue, and mood swings.

• Testicular disorders: Infections, injuries or autoimmune diseases.
• Hormonal disorders: Dysfunction of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, affecting the production of regulatory hormones.
• Obesity and metabolic syndrome: They can interfere with the production and action of testosterone.
• Sleep apnea: Related to a reduction in the synthesis of sexual hormones.
• Use of certain medications: Steroids, opioids, or cancer treatments can affect hormone levels.

However, excess testosterone in the blood is not common naturally, but can occur in cases such as:

• Tumors in the adrenal glands or testicles.
• Changes in the pituitary gland: Excessive production of prolactin or other hormones.
• Overtraining Syndrome: Extreme stress from excessive physical exercise.
• Consumption of substances or medications: Use of anabolic steroids or other drugs that artificially increase testosterone.

Does this test have any risks?

How can I perform a testosterone test?

En Low Testosterone Clinic Doctor T you can enjoy To get your testosterone level tested, you just have to rto preserve here tu analytics or you can also do our online testosterone test supervised by our team of professionals expert in male sexual health and in TRT, concerned about your sexual well-being.