How to Test Testosterone Levels: FAQ Guide

Published March 19, 2025

This guide covers key information about how to get your testosterone levels checked, including symptoms of hormonal imbalances, available test options, and how to interpret your results.

Testosterone is a vital hormone responsible for regulating many functions in the body, including muscle mass, bone density, and reproductive health. Between 10% to 40% of men have abnormally low testosterone³, while about 5% of reproductive-age women experience abnormally high testosterone.⁴ When testosterone levels are imbalanced, it can cause a range of health concerns, making testing an important step in identifying potential issues.

What Are the Symptoms and Risks of Testosterone Imbalance?

Testosterone imbalances can lead to a variety of symptoms, depending on whether levels are too low or too high.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone (Low T)

• Decreased muscle mass
• Increased body fat
• Fatigue or low energy
• Low sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Mood changes, including depression
• Trouble with memory and concentration¹,²

Who Is at Risk for Low Testosterone?

• Individuals with conditions affecting the pituitary gland or hypothalamus
• Those with congenital disorders like Klinefelter syndrome
• Individuals with obesity or type 2 diabetes¹,³

Symptoms of High Testosterone

• Acne
• Increased aggression or mood swings
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure and cholesterol
• Weight gain
• Insulin resistance
• Head hair loss or increased body or facial hair
• Irregular menstrual cycles (for those assigned female at birth)⁴,⁵

Who Is at Risk for High Testosterone?

• Individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Those using anabolic steroids or testosterone supplementation
• People with adrenal gland disorders⁵

What Types of Testosterone Tests Are Available?

There are several types of testosterone tests available, each measuring different aspects of the hormone:

Total Testosterone Test

• Measures both free testosterone (not attached to proteins) and bound testosterone
• The most commonly used test for testosterone evaluation²

Free Testosterone Test

• Measures only unbound testosterone, which is readily available for use by the body
• Typically used in cases where total testosterone levels appear normal, but symptoms persist²

Bioavailable Testosterone Test

• Measures both free testosterone and testosterone loosely bound to albumin
• Used to provide a more comprehensive analysis of available testosterone levels²

Quest offers all the above blood tests including the total testosterone testing, the most widely accepted method for assessing testosterone levels.² Other test options may be less accurate,⁶ but some healthcare providers do use them to help diagnose certain conditions.

These tests offer these different types of testosterone testing. 

Total testosterone test: 

• Testosterone Test

Total, free and bioavailable testosterone tests: 

• Men’s Hormone Basic
• Men’s Hormone Expanded
• Women’s Hormone Basic
• Women’s Hormone Expanded

How Should You Prepare for a Testosterone Test?

• Fasting Required: Refrain from eating or drinking (except water) for 10 to 12 hours before the test
• Best Time for Testing: Testosterone levels peak in the morning, so tests should be conducted early in the day³
• Medications & Supplements: Ask your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements that may affect hormone levels

How to Interpret Testosterone Blood Test Results

Your test results may not always be straightforward. You should work with your healthcare provider to interpret your individual results in combination with your health history.  

• Normal Range: Varies based on age, sex, and individual health factors
• Low Testosterone: May indicate hypogonadism, requiring further evaluation with a healthcare provider⁵
• High Testosterone: Could signal underlying conditions such as PCOS or adrenal disorders, requiring further evaluation with a healthcare provider⁵

If your testosterone levels fall outside the normal range, please reach out to your healthcare provider who may recommend additional testing or treatment options, such as hormone therapy or lifestyle modifications.

Why Choose Quest for Testosterone Testing?

Quest provides discreet and convenient testosterone testing with several key benefits:

• No doctor’s visit required—simply order online and visit a local Quest location
• Fast and reliable results to help guide your next steps
• Independent physician consultations available at no additional cost if your results require further discussion

Buy Your Testosterone Test Today

No doctor visit is required to buy your own lab test at questhealth.com. PWNHealth and its affiliates review your purchase to ensure it is medically appropriate before submitting the test order for processing. PWNHealth also reviews your test results and will contact you directly if they require prompt attention. Included in each purchase is the option to discuss your test results with an independent physician; however, you are also encouraged to speak with your primary healthcare provider.